This morning, while instructing a dear friend in a Pilates exercise called the Mermaid, I asked her to let her body move into the stretch without adding extra tension to it --the reformer machine has a way of guiding you into a stretch if you simply let your body follow its lead. The thought occurred to us that this is often true of life--we add unnecessary tension to relationships, work, parenting when the opposite reaction,a little more of letting go, could be of value.
One group at the Y that actually seems to practice "letting go" are those that participate every Friday in the Parkinson Exercise Program. This group of 14 individuals faithfully attend two days a week and report improved movement, balance and function as a result of consistent exercise. The program was developed based upon the research of skilled clinicians who take the time to perform scientific studies to support the practice of exercise for those with Parkinson's disease. Participants initially walk forward on the treadmill for 15 minutes. Typically we emphasize long strides, smooth gait and healthy posture. The second 15 minutes they walk in the reverse on the treadmil--yes backwards. Keep in mind a number of the participants come to us using canes and walkers--it is a challenging feat for them to reverse their gait on the treadmill--even at a slow pace with hand rails. The benefit of walking backwards is the development of new neural pathways in the brain--learning any new skill can enhance brain function. In addition the proces of walking backwards encourages extension of the spine versus the forward flexed posture we often assume. Walking backwards also emphasizes a hip flexor stretch and engages the glutes. Hip flexors tend to be short and tight so walking backwards adds some balance to muscle groups. There are times I do hold my breath during this portion of the program--try walking backward yourself one day and notice the learning curve involved. Now add tremors, weakness, and in some cases severe postural changes to your effort. Nonetheless the difference in this group is astounding. Taller, stronger, increased flexibility plus they have created a healthy social support system. The last 3o minutes participants complete a variety of trunk mobility exercise with emphasis on spinal stability, glute strength, and standing balance work.
Working with these friends who have been diagnosed with a life-changing disease and still put their best foot forward...or backwards...is a privilege. Next time you desire to add a little variety to your cardio routine ,or your life, consider letting go and walking in the reverse.
One group at the Y that actually seems to practice "letting go" are those that participate every Friday in the Parkinson Exercise Program. This group of 14 individuals faithfully attend two days a week and report improved movement, balance and function as a result of consistent exercise. The program was developed based upon the research of skilled clinicians who take the time to perform scientific studies to support the practice of exercise for those with Parkinson's disease. Participants initially walk forward on the treadmill for 15 minutes. Typically we emphasize long strides, smooth gait and healthy posture. The second 15 minutes they walk in the reverse on the treadmil--yes backwards. Keep in mind a number of the participants come to us using canes and walkers--it is a challenging feat for them to reverse their gait on the treadmill--even at a slow pace with hand rails. The benefit of walking backwards is the development of new neural pathways in the brain--learning any new skill can enhance brain function. In addition the proces of walking backwards encourages extension of the spine versus the forward flexed posture we often assume. Walking backwards also emphasizes a hip flexor stretch and engages the glutes. Hip flexors tend to be short and tight so walking backwards adds some balance to muscle groups. There are times I do hold my breath during this portion of the program--try walking backward yourself one day and notice the learning curve involved. Now add tremors, weakness, and in some cases severe postural changes to your effort. Nonetheless the difference in this group is astounding. Taller, stronger, increased flexibility plus they have created a healthy social support system. The last 3o minutes participants complete a variety of trunk mobility exercise with emphasis on spinal stability, glute strength, and standing balance work.
Working with these friends who have been diagnosed with a life-changing disease and still put their best foot forward...or backwards...is a privilege. Next time you desire to add a little variety to your cardio routine ,or your life, consider letting go and walking in the reverse.
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