Pilates and driving a car
Pilates and driving a car
Driving a car may seem like a relatively static or sedentary activity and whilst it is a seated activity, there are certain movements that are required in order for us to safely get into and out of, drive and manoeuvre our car.
Whilst our mirrors and reversing cameras have made driving a car far easier, we may still need to rotate our body and our head for example prior to changing lanes on a motorway, or when reversing into a parking space.
An exercise that helps to maintain range of movement in our neck is simply to stand with a good posture and gently rotate the head from left to right and then to gently tip the head from left to right. We usually include some neck mobility exercises in every class to support and promote range of movement in the upper part of our spine.
We may also benefit from good thoracic or upper back mobility when driving, in particular our rotational range of movement. An exercise we do regularly on our side helps to open the chest and rotate the upper back -and I call it the book opener. This involves opening one arm towards the ceiling and then rotating the chest as far back as is comfortable, with our lower body remaining relatively still. This is primarily a mobility rather than a strengthening exercise and can be modified to make it more comfortable for those with shoulder complaints. It’s also a very gentle, slow and calming movement.
Of course, to drive or even be a passenger in a car we also need to be able to get into and out of the vehicle. For this we benefit from maintaining the strength in our larger muscles of the legs and hips.
We usually do some form of leg strengthening exercises in standing after a warmup. This may be a simple squat or lunge, or variations such as the curtsie lunge, all of which help to strengthen the muscles of our lower body in various different positions, because real life isn't always perfectly aligned. Maintaining strength in these larger leg muscles is really essential as we get older, and weakness here can become noticeable when we find it more difficult to get into and out of a car.
Are you looking for a gentle weekly class that aims to improve spinal mobility, lower body strength, general mobility, posture, breath, core stability and relaxation? If so, start by dropping me an email using the button below. My classes are all held in Hook and booking is required as spaces are limited – looking forward to hearing from you. New starters are welcome any time, spaces permitting.
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This article is for interest and information only and is neither advice nor instruction - join my classes to have full instruction in these and many other exercises that promote independence in our activities of daily life.