Understanding the cerebellum and the critical role it plays in movement

Understanding the cerebellum and the critical role it plays in movement What makes the cerebellum so interesting? The cerebellum plays a vital role in coordinating movement, maintaining balance, learning new skills, and fine-tuning motor activity. It is because of this “little brain” that activities like riding a bicycle or swimming become second nature to us.…

PD Part 2: Innovative Pilates & Movement programming for people with Parkinson’s disease

If you haven’t yet read Part 1 of our PD series, you can find it here. Although there is currently no way to correct the brain changes that cause Parkinson’s disease, we know that exercise can help fight the disease and that staying healthy can help reduce setbacks that make living with PD more challenging.…

PD Part 1: Living better with Parkinson’s disease through Pilates & Movement

According to the World Health Organization, “Disability and death due to Parkinson’s disease are increasing faster than for any other neurological disorder. The prevalence of PD has doubled in the past 25 years. Global estimates in 2019 showed over 8.5 million individuals with PD.”i Many people, including Pilates and movement professionals, are unaware of this…

What does “arm bone in shoulder socket” mean, and why is it important?

What does “arm bone in socket” mean? Let’s admit it: Pilates and movement instructors are known for saying things that seem pretty cryptic to the uninitiated. This is particularly true in a group class setting, where instructors may not have the opportunity to fully elaborate on certain cues or expressions. The exhortation to “get arm…

phasic muscles pilates and movement

What are tonic and phasic muscles (and why should I care)?

Understanding tonic and phasic muscles Tonic and phasic muscle theory originated in the late 1960s with Dr. Vladimir Janda, a Czech neurologist and physiotherapist.  Using electromyography (EMG), Dr. Janda found that some muscles are practically always active and seemingly resistant to fatigue, while others fatigue easily and are only active when deliberately called upon. Dr.…

How to breathe better and decrease your stress Part 2: Breathing & movement techniques

In Part 1 of How to breathe better and decrease your stress, I discussed the anatomy of the respiratory diaphragm and how it works. Your diaphragm not only helps you breathe, but also affects your circulation, blood pressure, posture, digestion and stress response. Today, I’ll teach you some simple, effective ways you can condition your…