Pilates technique explained
Polarization - Tense - Make Long in Pilates Training
by Maria Felsner
In our Pilates training we often talk about "polarizing".
What do we mean by that exactly?
Why is polarizing so important in Pilates training?
General
The movement sequence during Pilates Training is mostly flowing and guided by breathing. The continuous repetition of the exercises allows the nervous system to adapt slowly but progressively. The focus of the exercises starts from the center and is mainly transferred to several joints at the same time. In this way, the complete body is mobilized, as all joints are connected like a chain.
However, in order to achieve optimal functionality of these chains, which are composed of muscles, fasciae, ligaments and tendons, they must be well aligned and free.
We achieve this primarily by "tensing up". Be it in the spine or also in the extremities, i.e. in the arms and legs.
Joseph Pilates also used to talk about "length, length, length..." which means nothing other than stretching.
"Pilates is not a system of arbitrary, haphazard exercises whose only goal is to produce bloated muscles. Quite the opposite - it was designed and tested for over 43 years to make every muscle in the body as supple as the muscles of a cat."
JOSEPH PILATES
Length, length, length
How can you imagine the stretching, making long, polarizing?
It is best to imagine a spider's web that is taut at all corners. If there is a loss of tension in one corner, this can be felt at the other end of the spider web. This changes the entire structure and statics. Both in the center of the web and at the other end.
For example, if we look at the exercise "Spine Twist", where we stretch the arms to the side and straighten the spine, a net is created from the crown of the head to the buttocks, as well as starting from the shoulder girdle to the fingertips. This is based on the activation of the muscles in extension, which means "stretching out". Search "force in length".
This length is generated by countertraction. This is where polarity comes into play. Polarity is therefore the principle of control.
Video: Pro Tip "Polarity in Pilates
In summary
The goal of polarity is to...
- To free up joints.
- To support the alignment of the body.
- Activate deep-seated muscles.
- To train the perception of the body.
- To release muscular & fascial adhesions.
In our Online Pilates Course the topic is explained with further professional tips. And of course practiced during each training session.
Learn Pilates Online.
How?
How the online Pilates course works
Hello, your articles are like a guide for me. Please keep up the good work! Best regards
Thank you very much Patricia, I am very happy if you benefit from my articles. I love writing and more articles are in the pipeline! Best regards Maria