Professional athletes often undergo rigorous training regimens to keep their fitness at the top level necessary for success in a competitive world. However, now more than ever, sports professionals are turning to Pilates because they have discovered the numerous benefits this type of exercise and recovery can bring. NFL players are now using Pilates for men to stay game-ready, from keeping their strength and flexibility on point to decompressing and recovering from injury. Pilates has plenty to offer for athletes of all types.
Here are some ways Pilates helps keep NFL players ready to go for games at home or away. Consider how they use Pilates:
To Reduce Hamstring Injuries
A hamstring injury can be an ever-present threat in football due to the heavy reliance on the legs and the need for sudden twisting and pivoting movements. Add to this the risk of slipping on wet grass, being tackled sideways, and overextending a limb.
Football players face the threat of strains, sprains, and other ligament injury regularly. And because many football players are men, the risk is even higher.
Studies show that women usually have more extensibility in their hamstrings than men—that is, they can go about ten degrees further when extending the leg compared to men. This factor plays a role in injury risk, as tight hamstrings do not have the flexible adaptability to withstand sudden hyperextension.
However, studies also show that increasing exercises specifically targeting flexibility and eccentric motion (in other words, how well the hamstring can adapt to suddenly bearing more weight) significantly reduces injury by around 46% for the hamstrings. By incorporating Pilates into their workouts, NFL players are increasing stability around the body and reducing their risk of injury.
To Build Core Strength
The core is essential for skilled football players. To place sufficient force behind a tackle, pivot in response to other players, throw the ball laterally, and more, players must maintain core strength and stability.
Pilates is a powerful tool in this endeavor, thanks to its focus on core strength. By consistently working the muscles that support the torso, spine, and hips, football players can improve their game and make themselves more adaptable and agile on the field.
To Enhance Bodily Awareness
Proprioception, or a person’s awareness of their own position in space, is non-negotiable for football players. Without being aware of their form, football players could not correctly line up throws and catches. They become more susceptible to unexpected tackles—which not only interfere with play, but can also leave them more vulnerable to injury.
Studies have shown Pilates to increase participants’ proprioception by a significant margin, even after only a few weeks. For professional NFL players, the difference between a win and a loss might be just a single degree in their throwing angle.
Correctly perceiving and staying in touch with the body is an irreplaceable skill. Other forms of exercise do not cultivate this mindfulness in the same ways that Pilates does.
To Reduce Strain on the Body
Football is a strenuous sport with sudden movements, extensive running, and being tackled or falling, which places shock-based strain on the joints. Suppose athletes want to train and remain flexible through workouts off the field.
In that case, high-impact exercises can be more than their body can handle. Players experiencing joint and muscle pain should rest and recover, not strain their bodies further. This is one area where Pilates can genuinely shine for NFL players.
Studies indicate that the supportive bodyweight exercises found in Pilates can aid in rehabilitation for specific target groups. Whether using a reformer machine or a mat—or any other Pilates tools—NFL players can adjust the exercises to suit their body’s current abilities and any injuries they are recovering from.
This allows players to remain physically fit and active, even when an injury slows them down. Since the top level of fitness is required in the NFL, Pilates blends the need for training with injury prevention and support.
Try Pilates to Learn How It Can Benefit You, Too!
While NFL players find a lot to love about Pilates, they are not the only ones enjoying it! People of all ages and ability types can benefit from Pilates.
Even if you have never seen a reformer before, it is easy to get started—especially with dedicated instruction from the team at RTR Pilates. Contact RTR Pilates today to sign up for a beginner class to learn why NFL players rely on this adaptive exercise.
