Marshall Eklund's San Diego Fitness & Pilates Blog

Confused San Diego? MAT Pilates vs. M.A.T.

Often the Instructors of Marshall Eklund Fitness and Pilates use M.A.T.  while teaching all forms of Pilates.

Definition of M.A.T. 

Biomechanically based evaluation and treatment systems tests for muscular imbalances. MAT was created by Greg Roskpf. Greg Roskpf was a strength coach for Fresno State from ’85-’88 and has his Masters in Exercise Physiology.

The formal definition of Muscle Activation Techniques sounds like complicated terminology for Pilates. However, it is a more technical philosophy to helping determine whether muscles surrounding a joint have proper neurological input or rather muscle tightness or weakness. Is this something that will take off? Is it just a more technical take on Pilates?  The philosophy of MAT or muscle activation therapies is the concept that directly relates to the Law of Reciprocal Inhibition. This Law states that when a muscle contracts it sends an inhibition response to the antagonist muscle (a muscle that opposes the action of another; "the biceps and triceps are antagonistic muscles") in order to allow for normal motion. Many places use it but how does it differ? It differs by viewing muscle tightness as secondary to muscle inhibition and weakness. The concept is if a contracting muscle does not have feedback from the nervous system then the opposing muscle will become hyperactive and its resting length will be altered.  The ultimate goal: Provide proper balance between agonist (A contracting muscle that is resisted or counteracted by another muscle, the antagonist. and antagonist muscle.) So why with all these technical terms and new age muscle therapy? Pilates does these things without the extra use of you already weary brains. So stretch, relax and let us worry about how to balance your agonist and antagonist. MAT is interesting and definitely worth taking another look into since it seems to be a more in depth process of therapy; a bridge between Pilates and actual physical therapy. The good news is that Pilates works on correcting your posture and strengthening, lengthening the muscles that need it from your core out. 

 

 

Back Pain Relief! Dr. Oz agrees Pilates is Best

Hi, all - Judy here again.  I was doing some research on back pain the other day and was both fascinated and horrified by the statistics!  Did you know that thirty-one million Americans have low back pain at any given time!  One half of all working Americans over the age of 18 have had a back problem in the past five years severe enough to seek professional help.  Experts estimate that 80% of us will have a back problem in our lifetimes!  WOW!!!  That is amazing.  There is good news and you are in the best place to take advantage of it.  Back pain relief and healing is a common reason many people try Pilates.  Many of you already know that and, in fact, do or train Pilates exercise for that reason.  It is certainly true for me and many of my friends.  My chiropractor reminds me each time I go how thankful I should be for the amazing results I have personally gotten from Pilates.  Evidently, we are not alone in recognizing the benefits of Pilates for Back Pain.  As I was doing my research I discovered that world famous Dr. Mehmet Oz also recognizes the value of Pilates for back pain and posted an interesting piece about it on his website.  Check it out by clicking on the link.  Marshall Eklund Pilates and Fitness has a lot of experience helping our clients find back pain relief.  We are proud of the work we do to strengthen backs, improve posture and flexibility, all of which help provide relief and healing.  Even better, if you are proactive and create a strong core and strong back, you may be able to avoid being part of these statistics. 

Marshall Eklund Pilates congratulates Deborah Szekely

What a fantastic article in the San Diego Union-Tribune about Deborah Szekely celebrating Rancho La Puerto's 70th anniversary!  Here it is if you missed it Signon San Diego Article.  Congratulations!  An amazing accomplishment by an amazing woman.  We are honored that someone of Deborah Szekely's background and knowledge would choose Marshall Eklund Pilates and Fitness when she is here in San Diego for her three times a week pilates training.  She has been an inspiration to our staff for nearly eight years--a welcome reminder that hard work, excellence and comittment create long-term success.

Pilates Helps After 50 Years of Back Pain

"For the first time in fifty years, my back doesn't hurt."  The rest of our Pilates class turned towards Barbara as she continued, "I remember exactly, because I just celebrated my son's fiftieth birthday and my back started hurting when he was born.  We were celebrating his birthday when I noticed my back didn't hurt!"  WOW.  She attributed it to Pilates since she had tried so much else over the years.  Everyone was thrilled for her and added their own stories about the difference pilates was making in their lives.  Needless to say, as their pilates trainer, I felt fabulous!  I've always known "this stuff works" as Marshall says (okay, that not exactly what he says, but close), but it was great to know it was working for my friends.  They are my age and, quite frankly, all the years of wear and tear catches up with our bodies.  I'm right there with them--I have a little of everything going on with my old body, scoliosis, osteoarthritis, joint pain, etc.  I am so grateful for pilates--my chiropractor reminds me each monthly visit what a good thing it is for me.  He told me last week that when his younger patients whine he tells them he has a seventy-some year old patient (that's me) who can kick their butt so they need to start moving.

Important point.  We spend much our days at computers, reading, or watching TV--flexed forward, slumped or both.  Pretty tough on the old back. Or the young back for that matter.  A Brazilian friend was prescribed Pilates as a teenager for his back problems. It worked wonders.  A lot--maybe most--of the clients who come to Marshall Eklund Pilates & Fitness are here because of back, shoulder or neck issues. If they don't already have problems, they want to prevent them.  Or they want to look and feel fabulous which also happens.  Personally, I love feeling "excellent" most of the time.  It is so empowering.

On that note, and feeling particularly excellent, I leave you,

Judy

The Remarkable STOTT PILATES® Certified Trainers

The students who come to Marshall Eklund Pilates to become STOTT PILATES® certified trainers never fail to amaze and inspire me.  This stuff is no walk in the park--it takes dedication and willingness to put in the time and effort doing the hard work of learning the material and actually getting it "in your body".  There is SO much to learn, no matter what your background.   

I've spent the last few years as Marshall Eklund Pilates Studio Educational Coordinator and am in total awe of the incredible people who come through our program.  They are simply the best.  They come from all walks of life, with such a variety of backgrounds and education.  We have taught personal trainers, dancers, yoga teachers, physical therapists, chiropracters, and students with health, beauty and business backgrounds.  We have studio clients who have become so aware of the benefits of the work that they go through the courses to gain a deeper knowledge.  We have acquired a great international reputation and have fabulous students (you know who you are) from The Philippines, Brazil, India, Kuwait, England, Canada, Mexico, Greece, and Italy to name a few. 

Many of you were drawn to this program because of what you have heard about STOTT PILATES and Marshall's phenomenal education program and our Instructor Trainers.  Good choice.  Some students are becoming Pilates Trainers as a new career, some are adding new skills to existing portfolios.   Some just love pilates and want to share it with others.  A surprising number of our students choose pilates because they have personally been healed by the work after injuries.  Many--maybe most--have made significant sacrifices to be in the program. 

I totally love coming into the studio and seeing current and past course students studying their craft--practicing with each other, reviewing the material, observing our talented staff and taking mat classes, private and semi-private sessions to refine their skills.  Not everyone has the luxury of being able to put in that kind of time at the studio and has the even tougher job of doing it in some other fashion.  You are all amazing, if I wore a hat it would be off to you.  If you know me, you know I'm a gusher--that said, even gushy-sappy words fail me in acknowledging how very special you are and how much I love and respect you all. Go forth and heal the world, little ones.  Okay, how about just go out there and kick butt.  You are terrific. 

Judy 

Breast Cancer and Pilates

Hi, all - Judy here again. 

I had a rather disturbing call recently from a very dear friend who lives in another state.  Nancy and I worked together years ago in International Marketing--all over Europe--too much fun.  Amazing woman.  Anyway, she had just been stunned with a diagnosis of breast cancer.  Stunned because she is in excellent health, takes care of herself, feels great, and has no family history of cancer.  Fortunately, they found it early, she feels she is in excellent hands with her medical team and has a superb support system.  Still, she spent last weekend here in San Diego and met several of my friends who are survivors of breast cancer to gain from their experience.  I had walked in the Susan G. Komen 3Day, 60 mile fundraiser 2 years ago with two good friends who are breast cancer survivors.  Several of our clients have also done the walk, are doing it this year or have been on the 3Day support team.  Some of you may recall that Marshall Eklund Pilates Studio has been a big supporter of various fundraising walks and, in fact, many of you have joined us. I just want to acknowledge all the amazing women who are our clients, our STOTT PILATES® certification students, and staff who are survivors, have family and friends who are survivors, and work hard to support irradicating this disease. 

Nancy was diagnosed early based on her yearly mammogram and has made it her personal mission to encourage ALL women to make that appointment and get a mammogram.  I'd like to help her with this worthy mission.   So, if you have not scheduled your yearly mammogram, do yourself a favor and DO IT NOW!  Thanks! 

Some of you reading this are well aware of how important it is to stay physically and emotionally fit as you recover from cancer treatments.  Thank you for choosing Marshall Eklund Pilates to provide the specialized exercise you need to regain your fitness.  We care about you.  Oh, Nancy came to my pilates class and loved it.  She recognized the value of taking care of herself with this kind of exercise and has signed up at a studio in her city!

Okay, one more time--if you haven't scheduled your mammogram, please do it now!

LIFT!! Marshall Eklund's Exciting New Program

Judy here.  I couldn't wait to share this experience.  I just took Marshall's exciting new Pilates-based LIFT program, designed to increase muscular strength, endurance and power.  WOW!!!  This was so much fun, different from traditional Pilates, but using the same principles to keep you safe.  Since I'm a little old lady (I can say it), I didn't think I could do a program that used weights, reps, sets, squats (I have a cranky squatter) and lunges (same cranky issues).  However, Marshall said I could do it and encouraged me to give it a try.  You know how that goes--whatever the Master says must be okay.  He was right (again--drat) and it was a blast!  I loved it and have put myself on the schedule to do it again.  I used  lighter weights than the regulars and needed a few corrections, but I did it ALL!  I was so impressed with me. Go old lady, go old lady!!!  I was pretty sure I wouldn't be able to move the next day, but I was just fine.  The trainers adjust the program to fit everyone in the group, from strong and fit clients who are looking for an intense workout to clients like me who need a little more coaching and lighter weights. It is a fabulous addition to my regular Pilates sessions.  I've been telling everyone I meet what a great program LIFT is to increase your muscle tone.  Wahoo, this stuff works.  I hope you'll all give it a try.  If I can do it at 72, it should be a cinch for you.  Yes, that is a little bit of a challenge.

Prenatal Pilates in San Diego!

We are very excited that our expertly designed pre- and post-natal pilates program is now successfully launched. We are offering the program as a semi-private session on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 11:00 a.m.  We have several pregnant clients currently enrolled.  This program is designed to reduce pregnancy-associated back pain and encourage faster post-partum recovery as well as  prepare for the physical demands of motherhood.   We follow the latest pre-natal research and guidelines to make sure our program is safe and effective.  One of our major areas of emphasis is on training the mother in ways to  prevent or alleviate some of the physical challenges and discomforts of pregnancy.  Mothers are taught how to engage appropriate muscles to create good posture and relieve back pain discomfort.  This is a wonderful opportunity for all expectant mothers.  Tell your friends about prenatal pilates in San Diego!

Our own Alyssa Jones, one of our amazing Instructor Trainers, has provided much of the personal experience in the design of our pre-and post-natal pilates program!  Alyssa is the mother of two beautiful little girls. 

Of course, all of our instructors are trained to provide expert pilates exercise for our pregnant clients.  For more information on our Pre- and Post-natal Pilates Program, click here Pregnancy Pilates.

Holiday Specials and Events

At this time of year, I often reflect on my own magical time as a child.   The excitement and anticipation of the Holiday season----For me it was Santa Clause, Christmas Stockings, brightly lit Christmas Trees and YES!  PRESENTS.  Lots and lots of presents!  I remember how wound up I was for weeks prior, thinking of the PRESENTS! 
 
Today I look back and remember with gratitude the abundance I had in my childhood.  Today, I'm also very aware of the many children that are not as fortunate as I was.   There are many parents and children who may go through the entire holiday season with little to eat, let alone money to buy presents.   I am committed to making a difference and hope you are interested in helping.
 
This year, Marshall Eklund Pilates Studio has partnered with La Maestra Community Health Center (www.lamaestra.org) for their annual Toy and Gift Drive.  Every December, La Maestra distributes gifts for low income families in our community.  We have chosen to help them provide Toys to children as our contribution to their effort.
 
We will be hosting several events giving you the opportunity to join us by bringing an unwrapped toy (or toys) as your donation to attend one or more of the following events.  Please call the studio (619-298-1177) to reserve your place at these events.  Feel free to bring an unwrapped toy to the Studio if you are unable to attend these special events:

1. Thanksgiving Day Workout, 11/26, 9:00 a.m - 10:00 a.m., With Marshall, Alicia and Emily!  Please bring your unwrapped toys (recommend $25 value) as your donation.  Guests are welcome (please call to reserve)
2. STOTT PILATES® CEC Education.  A Free Workshop "Intensifying Essential Reformer" on Sunday, December 6, 9:00 - 12:00 p with your donation of unwrapped toys (recommend $50 value, this is a $75 workshop). 
3. Our first ever Client/Staff Holiday Party!!!  December 10 (details to follow) with your donation of unwrapped toys (recommend $25-$50 value)

We have always been aware that we are blessed with incredible clients and certification students.  It is why we all love coming to work.  Thank you for your generosity and support throughout our decade of service.  We appreciate you.

All the best to you this Holiday Season,
 

Marshall

PILATES & Transverse Abdominis?? EH!??

What the Heck's your Tee Aaa.??
 
I can distinctly remember one day years ago sitting in the office of my first studio.  While doing paperwork I was being bombarded with the shrill voice of a new trainer, just shy of yelling at a new client.  As I tried to methodically reconcile our business checking account, all I could hear was TEE—AAA, TEE—AAA

Being the control freak that I am, I had to investigate.  Sure enough as this new client moved back and forth on the reformer, the instructor stood over this gentleman pointing at his abdominal region.  shrieking TEE—AAA, TEE—AAA.

Then I realized what the instructor was trying to accomplish.  The trainer wanted the client to turn-on or activate his Transverse Abdominis.  Like so many pilates exercises, the instructor wanted the client to stabilize his pelvis and lumbar spine by activating the Transverse Abdominis (T.A.).  The Transverse Abdominis is the little known but important muscle that is responsible for stabilizing the pelvis on the lumber spine (and holding in your gut--bonus function).

After the client had left the studio I had an opportunity to chat with the instructor.  After a few encouraging words on their training prowess, I explained that one of our roles is to teach our clients --- Meaning that most mere mortals would not have the faintness clue or any definition of the mighty TEE—AAA.

So trainers!  Please, when chirping out the cue to engage the T.A., take a moment and define the incredible benefits of the Transverse abdominis, its location and how a client should activate.
Now more importantly--- If you are ever a client at another studio and your trainer begins yelling TEE—AAA, TEE—AAA.  Stop.  Look up, smile knowingly and reply.  “You mean the Transverse Abominis, don’t you?  Smile for you now know what T.A. stands for unlike that trainer. (Of course this will not be necessary with my staff who are impeccably trained!)