5 Myths Busted - How Pilates Empowers Everyone

5 Myths Busted: How Pilates Empowers Everyone

Pilates at ServiceYourBody.ie, with its full body movements and core focus, often faces misconceptions that it is exclusive. But the truth is, Pilates empowers individuals of all ages and abilities. By debunking these five common myths, we can unlock each person's inner strength and confidence:

Myth 1: Pilates is only for the young and agile.

This myth disempowers older adults seeking to maintain independence and improve their well-being. The reality? Pilates' low-impact exercises empower seniors by strengthening muscles, enhancing balance, and increasing flexibility, all crucial for preventing falls and staying active. Imagine feeling confident navigating your daily life thanks to the power gained through mindful movement.

Myth 2: You need to be a fitness pro to benefit from Pilates.

This myth discourages beginners who might feel intimidated. However, Pilates' adaptability empowers people of all fitness levels. In ServiceYourBody.ie beginner classes, complete beginners start with gentle exercises, gradually progressing as they build strength and confidence.

Myth 3: Injuries are a roadblock to trying Pilates.

This myth can leave individuals with injuries feeling excluded. The truth is, when incorporated into a rehabilitation program under proper guidance, Pilates empowers individuals recovering from injuries or post pregnancy. The controlled movements and focus on form help rebuild strength, improve stability, and manage pain, leading to a sense of empowered healing and regained functionality.

Myth 4: Pilates is a luxury reserved for fancy studios.

This myth creates a barrier for those who might believe they can't afford it. Thankfully, Pilates has become more accessible and affordable with ServiceYourBody.ie studios catering to specific needs with specialised programs. This accessibility empowers everyone to explore Pilates without financial constraints.

Myth 5: You need to be flexible and confident to walk into a Pilates class.

This myth fuels self-consciousness and discourages participation. However, Pilates studios cultivate a supportive and encouraging environment. Instructors at ServiceYourBody.ie understand that everyone starts somewhere, and modifications are available to make exercises suitable for all levels. The focus is on mindful movement and personal progress, not achieving some unrealistic image. This empowers individuals to build confidence through self-discovery and celebrating their own achievements.

By debunking these myths, we empower individuals to see Pilates not as an exclusive practice, but as a door to improved well-being, self-confidence, and a sense of empowered movement. Remember, Pilates is for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Take the first step, sign up today at www.serviceyourbody.ie and challenge the myths, and unlock the power within yourself!

 


Empowering Our Clients at ServiceYourBody.ie

Empowering Our Clients to Take Control of their Health and Fitness

*95% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say attending our Pilates classes puts them in a good mood

*81% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say attending our Pilates classes helps reduce their stress

*87% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say our Pilates classes has helped improved their strength

*76% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say our Pilates classes have helped make their daily physical activities easier

In today's fast-paced world, where stress and sedentary lifestyles are the norm, finding ways to maintain physical and mental well-being is crucial. At ServiceYourBody.ie Pilates classes emphasises controlled movements, core strength, and breathwork, offers a unique blend of physical and mental benefits that empowers our clients to take control of their health and fitness.

Building a Strong Foundation

Pilates is renowned for its focus on core strength, which serves as the foundation for a healthy and resilient body. By engaging the deep stabilising muscles of the core, Pilates develops a strong, powerful center that supports their posture, enhances balance, and protects against injuries. This enhanced core strength translates into everyday life, making everyday activities such as lifting, carrying, and maintaining an upright posture easier and more efficient.

76% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say our Pilates classes have helped make their daily physical activities easier

Beyond Physical Strength: Cultivating Mental Clarity

While Pilates is primarily known for its physical benefits, it also offers a wealth of mental and emotional advantages. The controlled movements of Pilates encourage mindfulness and focus, helping our clients to quiet their minds and cultivate a sense of calm amidst the chaos of daily life. Moreover, the focus on breathwork in Pilates promotes deep, diaphragmatic breathing, which has been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance mental clarity.

81% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say attending our Pilates classes helps reduce their stress

Empowering Yourself to Take Charge

The physical and mental benefits of Pilates extend beyond the studio, empowering individuals to take charge of their overall health and fitness. The increased strength, flexibility, and resilience gained through Pilates translate into a sense of empowerment and confidence in one's ability to navigate everyday challenges.

This empowerment extends beyond physical fitness, fostering a positive outlook on life and a belief in one's ability to achieve personal goals.

95% of ServiceYourBody.ie clients say attending our Pilates classes puts them in a good mood

Embrace the Path to Empowerment

In a world that often demands too much and gives too little, at ServiceYourBody.ie we want to Empower our clients to take control of their Health & Fitness.

At ServiceYourBody.ie we offer Physiotherapy and Pilates services to our client, our vision is to work with our clints to help them through their injury and get them past their aches and pains.

Our physiotherapy services involves a full assessment with treatment and tailored home exercise plan to get them back to their everyday levels of health.

We then empower our clients to stay in control of their Health & Fitness through our Pilates services.

Pilates offers a refreshing antidote to exercise. It's a practice that encourages client to take care of themselves, to listen to their bodies, and to cultivate a sense of self-empowerment that resonates through all aspects of their lives.

So, if you would to learn more about ServiceYourBody.ie Physiotherapy and Pilates services please contact us andy@seriveyourbody.ie or pilates@serviceyourbody.ie

 

 

 


Protecting Your Body with Resistance Based Exercise: A Physio's Perspective

Protecting Your Body with Resistance Based Exercise: A Physio's Perspective

Injuries are an unfortunate part of life, but they don't have to be inevitable. By incorporating resistance training into your routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury and reap a host of other health benefits. As a physiotherapist in Lucan, who strongly advocates for Pilates, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of resistance-based exercises in strengthening the body and enhancing overall well-being.

Building a Stronger, More Resilient Body

Resistance training, whether it's Pilates, lifting weights, or using resistance bands, essentially challenges your muscles to adapt and grow stronger. This process not only enhances muscle strength but also improves flexibility, coordination, and balance—all crucial factors in injury prevention.

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that resistance training programs can reduce the risk of sports-related injuries by up to 50%. This reduction is attributed to the strengthening of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which provide better support and stability to the joints.

Boosting Confidence and Embracing Activity

When you feel strong and confident in your body's abilities, you're more likely to engage in physical activities that you might have previously avoided due to fear of injury. This newfound confidence can lead to a more active lifestyle, encompassing activities ranging from playing with grandchildren to pursuing challenging fitness goals.

A study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity revealed that regular resistance training can significantly improve functional mobility and reduce the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. This is a testament to the positive impact resistance training such as Pilates can have on maintaining independence and quality of life.

Pilates: A Gateway to Strength and Well-being

Pilates, in particular, has emerged as a highly effective form of resistance training, renowned for its focus on core strengthening, flexibility, and overall body control. The controlled movements and emphasis on proper form make Pilates a suitable option for people of all ages and fitness levels.

A study published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies found that Pilates can significantly improve pain and function in individuals with chronic lower back pain. This highlights the therapeutic benefits of Pilates in addressing musculoskeletal issues and promoting overall well-being.

Incorporating Resistance Training for a Healthier You

Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness novice, resistance training can play a vital role in injury prevention and overall health enhancement. Start slowly, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts as you progress. Seek guidance from a qualified physiotherapist or fitness professional to ensure you're using proper form and technique to maximize benefits and minimize injury risk.

Remember, resistance training is not just about building muscle; it's about empowering your body to move with strength, resilience, and confidence. Embrace the journey of strengthening your body and reap the rewards of a healthier, more active life.


Lymphatic Drainage Massage Lucan

What is Lymphatic Draining Massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage Lucan is a gentle, rhythmic massage that helps to move lymph fluid through the body. It is often used to treat swelling, pain, and other symptoms of lymphatic dysfunction. Lymphatic drainage massage is performed by our trained practitioner in our Lucan Physiotherapy clinic. Our practitioner uses their hands to apply gentle pressure to specific areas of the body, following the direction of the lymphatic flow. Our Lymphatic Drainage practitioner is also a qualified physiotherapist and can further assist with your recovery where applicable.

Reasons to Consider Lymphatic Drainage Massage

  • To relieve pain and congestion in arthritic joints
  • Post Injury e.g. Ankle sprain swelling
  • You are suffering with oedema post-surgery
  • Post cancer treatment or surgery e.g. Lymph node removal
  • You get recurrent colds, sore throats etc.
  • You have low energy levels
  • You have new or old scars that are congested
  • You are stressed

Symptoms of Lymphatic Dysfunction can include; 

  • Swelling in the arms, legs, or face.
  • Pain or discomfort in the affected area.
  • Redness or warmth in the affected area.
  • Fatigue.
  • Weight gain.
  • Reducing swelling.

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage also include; 

  • Reducing swelling.
  • Improving circulation.
  • Reducing pain.
  • Boosting the immune system.

Supporting your Lymphatic Health 

There are a number of things you can do to improve your lymphatic health, including:

  • Eating a healthy diet.
  • Exercising regularly.
  • Managing stress.
  • Getting enough sleep.
  • Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Keeping your skin clean and moisturized.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lymphatic Draining Massage Lucan  

Question: What is the difference between lymphatic drainage and regular massage?
Answer: Lymphatic drainage is a more gentle and specific massage than regular massage. It is designed to help move lymph fluid through the body, while regular massage is more focused on relaxation and pain relief.

Question: Can lymphatic drainage help with weight loss?
Answer: Lymphatic drainage can help to reduce swelling, which can make it easier to lose weight. However, it is not a magic bullet for weight loss.

Question: Is lymphatic drainage safe for everyone?
Answer: Lymphatic drainage is generally safe for most people. However, it is important to avoid lymphatic drainage if you have any of the following conditions:

    • Active infection
    • Blood clots
    • Open wounds

Question: How often should I get lymphatic drainage massage?
Answer: The frequency of lymphatic drainage massage will vary depending on your individual needs. Some people may only need it once a week, while others may need it more often.

Question: How long do sessions last?
Answer: Our Lymphatic drainage massage sessions are between 45 – 60 mins depending on the issue. Our therapist will advise as to what is best based on your issue.

Question: Can I do lymphatic drainage on myself?
Answer: Yes, you can do lymphatic drainage on yourself. However, it is important to learn the proper techniques from a qualified practitioner.

Question: Can I do lymphatic drainage on myself?
Answer: Yes, you can do lymphatic drainage on yourself. However, it is important to learn the proper techniques from a qualified practitioner.

Our therapist is qualified in Cancer Massage and Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage. Should you wish to book an appointment please do so by emailing Andy@ServiceYourBody.ie


Why I Advocate Reformer Pilates at ServiceYourBody.ie

From a Physio to You: Why I Advocate for Reformer Pilates

As a seasoned physiotherapist in Lucan, I’ve spent a considerable part of my life addressing and treating injuries. Over the years, one recurring theme that stands out is the vast difference between injury treatment and injury prevention.

Now, let’s get one thing straight: treatment is essential. It’s the process of healing what’s been injured or strained. But imagine a world where we fortified our bodies so well, the chances of getting injured reduced dramatically. That’s where injury prevention comes in, and that’s where Reformer Pilates shines.

Reformer Pilates isn’t just a trendy exercise; it’s a science-backed method of strengthening the body.

Here’s the scoop: The reformer, a unique piece of equipment with springs, straps, and a gliding platform, targets the deeper muscles, promoting balanced muscle development. These aren’t the muscles you flaunt at the beach; these are the muscles that hold your skeleton in optimal alignment, that ensures you move efficiently, and that reduce your risk of injuries.

One study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that Pilates-based therapeutic exercise had positive effects on pain and function in patients with chronic low back pain. Now, that’s the power of body maintenance, the crux of injury prevention.

Don’t take my word for it, in a survey of over 170 of ServiceYourBody.ie Pilates clients:

  • 81% of our clients say our Pilates classes have helped them manage the symptoms of an injury e.g. Back Pain
  • 87% of our clients say our Pilates classes has helped improved their strength.
  • 70% of our clients practice Pilates to remain fit and healthy.

So, from this physio to you: consider giving ServiceYourBody.ie Reformer Pilates a whirl. It’s not just an exercise; it’s an investment in your health.

After all, isn’t it better to maintain our bodies proactively than to treat them reactively?

Think of Reformer Pilates at ServiceYourBody.ie as your insurance policy against future injuries. Stay strong, stay safe, and keep moving fluidly through life.

Benefits of Reformer Pilates


BEGINNERS GUIDE TO PILATES @ SERVICEYOURBODY.IE

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO PILATES @ SERVICEYOURBODY.IE


If it is the first time you are trying Pilates it can be a bit daunting!

But for some reason, people think that pilates classes come with an extra air of “avoid this unless you are fit, and flexible”

This is probably what we hear the most, people are nervous about starting a course of Pilates, they feel they are not fit enough to start or have an injury. One of the benefits of Pilates is it is a low impact, low intensity workout.

This makes it perfect for beginners or people recovering from an injury, it is also allows you build up your strength slowly over a number of weeks at your own pace. There are quite a few clients attending classes with some issue and our experienced instructors know how to modify exercises for the individual’s restriction and issues.

Want to know what to expect during your first few classes? Here’s our Beginners Guide to Pilates that will help you be prepared and be able to enjoy your first class:

Don’t forget your Grippy socks!

We suggest you wear tighter fitting cloths such as leggings or shorts and t-shirt so as you feel free to move and stretch during the class, you will warm up quickly!

We also recommend you wear grippy socks to help with your workout and give you more support while on the mat and reformer, if you don’t have any socks you can purchase some in studio on your arrival!


There are two types of pilates classes @ ServiceYourBody.ie – Mat & Reformer classes

Depending on which class you choose to start with either mat, or Reformer both options focus on the concept of control and full body strength. In pilates, your muscles are working against your body weight and with the Reformer you will also be working against resistance springs and bands.

Our Reformer classes can look intimating with the springs and straps on the machines  and our mat classes can seem a bit confusing with the different names of the moves and trying to remember to breath!

Whether you’re on the mat or reformer machine, you can start as a complete beginner, you don’t need to have done any mat classes before you can start Reformer and vice versa.

Both types of class will give you a great core workout targeting muscles you never knew you had!

Many clients love the feeling of being on a reformer – the machine gives you added flexibility and mobility while also challenging your strength giving you a great workout.

Regardless of which class you try, your goal should be to go at your pace, be guided by our excellent instructors, breath and enjoy your class.

Feeling the burn and being sore the next day!

Pilates is a low intensity workout so you won’t be jumping around doing Jumping Jacks or Squats, Pilates is made up of mostly bodyweight exercises targeting specific smaller muscle groups in a controlled way.

If you feel sore the next day this is normal and is called the DOMS (Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness) and is common after trying a new exercise routine, these aches will ease over a day or two.

Don’t forget your Grippy socks!

We suggest you wear tighter fitting cloths such as leggings or shorts and t-shirt so as you feel free to move and stretch during the class, you will warm up quickly!

We also recommend you wear grippy socks to help with your workout and give you more support while on the mat and reformer, if you don’t have any socks you can purchase some in studio on your arrival!

Expect to hear strange lingo!

Pilates has it own set of terminology, you will hear our instructors say things like such as “engage your pelvic floor” but don’t panic you will get used to what these mean and shown how they help guide you through your class ensuring you are targeting the correct muscle groups.


Understanding Pilates and getting the best from your class!

Getting started
Of course by now you’ve heard of Pilates but you may not know exactly what it is. Pilates is a series of precise, controlled exercises which target the core to strengthen it and the rest of the body.
Pilates was developed by a German man, Joseph Pilates, as a way of overcoming his own physical shortcomings, caused by childhood ailments. Joseph Pilates emigrated to the US in the 1920s and opened a studio in New York, where his method quickly became popular among the dance community. He continued to develop and advance the Pilates method until his death in 1967.

Find the right studio
There are many studios and gyms teaching Pilates classes, however to get the best from your Pilates class you should look to join a specific Pilates studio which solely focuses on Pilates. These studios will have very specialised staff dedicated to Pilates and will be able to guide you more precisely on your journey.

Mat versus Reformer
Pilates can be done in two ways. Reformer classes use a specific machine (Reformer) which is equipped with straps, springs and pulleys to facilitate muscle lengthening and strengthening.
Mat-work classes are more mainstream and they are predominantly equipment-free, perhaps using only basic items such as bands, blocks and balls and involves a lot of body weight exercises.
Neither type of class is better than the other, however we believe a combination of the two is best as mat classes consist of more body weight exercises that really target the core, while Reformers can give you more of a full body workout, so a mix of one class of each per week will give optimum results.

Don’t be a purist!
There are many different styles of Pilates, some people can be Pilates snobs and criticise other forms for not being true to Joseph Pilates’ original methods, but it doesn’t have to be ‘classic’ Pilates to be good and effective.
At ServiceYourBody.ie we believe Pilates is about mind and body co-ordination and movement, once you are moving you are making changes and improvements to your body.

Use your brain as well as your body
Movement should be thoughtless and fearless, in our Pilates classes we do ask you to focus while doing a movement to ensure you are moving as best you can. This time spent focusing on your movement allows your body to learn how to move without thinking, when you are going about your everyday tasks.
Focus on the process of the exercise rather than the outcome, but don’t try too hard as that causes you to tense up!

Find the right teacher
It’s crucial you find well-qualified and experienced instructors; luckily for you all the instructors at ServiceYourBody.ie are highly trained and come with many years of experience. We have a great team across our two studios so, if one instructor’s style doesn’t work for you, try one of our other instructors.

If you have any specific issues, you can come to us for an assessment before starting your Pilates journey. Also, our classes are kept small on purpose with no more than 8 in our Reformer classes and max of 8 – 10 in our mat classes. Smaller numbers will mean you get more personal attention.

Be patient
To get the best results, like everything, you need to give it time, commitment and be consistent. Don’t try to progress too quickly as unfortunately there are no quick wins.

The gear
You can wear pretty much anything to a class, as long as it’s comfy and you can move freely.

Please contact us if you have any further questions.


Low Back Pain and Reformer Classes Lucan

Low Back Pain and Reformer Classes Lucan

A great review of how our Reformer classes Lucan helped Ann, Ann has had low back pain and knee issues for quite a while. She has tried a variety of different exercise regimes to help her back and knee, she found some of them just made things worse. Below she talks about how the reformer classes have helped improve her overall strength, flexibility and improve her back and knee issues in just a few short weeks.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNWC3Kx_vIg[/embedyt]

"Whilst I have always been an advocate of regular Pilates for whatever ails you physically, I can honestly say that the Reformer classes Lucan at ServiceYourBody.ie, Lucan are a games changer!

This particular type of Pilates is fantastic for anyone wanting to strengthen your whole body without the fear of doing any injury.

The Reformer bed literally takes the chance of injury, or doing the exercises incorrectly, out of your hands.

The classes are small and at a personal pace so there is no worries about not being able to keep up. You just set the Reformer bed to your ability (with help from the instructors who are always working to help!) and do each exercise guided by the instructor.

The level of experience and knowledge from all the team at ServiceYourBody.ie have helped me recover from back and knee injuries and strengthen up my whole body with an ever changing variety of great fool proof exercises.

Personally, I have found a huge improvement in my core strength, overall flexibility and upper body strength in just a few short weeks attending the Reformer Pilates classes.

If you can suffer Andy's awful jokes whilst trying to hold an exercise move, then these is the classes for you!

And if you can't, dont worry there are more instructors with better jokes!!???? Ann P. Lucan"

 


A Case of Low Back in a Golfer

A case of Low Back Pain in a Golfer

We have been treating a Golfer with low back pain and his reaction to his back pain was very typical of people with back pain.
- Reduced how much he moves
- Developed different movement strategy
- Worried about causing more damage
- Slow to seek help...more of a male trait

How we treated him..
- Got him to move more
- Showed him how to squat and split squat pain free
- Explained to him movement is key to pain relief
- Explained Pain does not mean damage
- Small bit of hands on work

Returned a week later pain free and played a couple of rounds of golf with no issues.

Contact us for an appointment 086 8318931

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42v_Js859jc[/embedyt]


A Case of Hip Pain

Hip Pain

Over the past 6 weeks we have been working with a lady in her 40's with left sided Hip Pain, she reported having the hip pain for 1.5 years. She had a baby 2 years ago and the hip pain came on 6 months after having the baby. The hip pain was initially an intermittent niggle, but over the past few months it has become ongoing. The hip pain was worse when she runs, referring into her hamstring and wakes her turning at night with a pain scale of 8/10.

On our initial assessment we could see she was not happy to load her left side in step ups. Her balance was poor on her left side, her SIJ was positive for pain and she had a positive slump test.

Treatment Plan

We put a plan in place to strengthen her left hip, glute and core while working on her balance. We also wanted to get her nervous system happier to load her left hip and use her left side more, so as to reduce her hip pain.

Over the course of about 5 weeks her ongoing hip pain had reduced fully but she was still getting hip pain turning at night. We increased her strength work around her hip and her hip pain resolved completely day and night.

Her goal is to get back running a couple of days a week, so we put a plan in place to continue to load the left hip and start walk/run progressions and gradually get her body use to loading the left hip.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w90pwMOTQIo[/embedyt]

 

If you are suffering from ongoing hip or low back pain, or suffer from any pain that restricts your daily activities, give us a call to make appointment or avail of our "Free No Obligation" Full Body Assessment to understand your pain and how we can help to resolve it.