Pilates for Teachers
Educators have the opportunity to make a huge impact on their students – however, they face many challenges, which may result in low back, neck and shoulder pain; tired feet, aching legs, headaches, insomnia and stress. Often, the number one concern for teachers is back pain when standing.
Whether you’re a nursery school teacher or a college professor, job-related challenges can be reduced or avoided, especially if you know how to improve posture.
Challenges include:
Teachers often stand “lecture-style” for extended hours, placing an extra burden on the low back and legs, which may lead to poor posture. Additionally, hard unforgiving surfaces can take their toll after prolonged standing.
Bending or stooping over children at their desks.
Sitting down for long periods when grading assignments.
Lifting or carrying small children, heavy equipment or paperwork. Proper lifting techniques are vital to injury prevention.
Teachers in primary and early-year classrooms can spend an average of 20,000 hours sitting on furniture designed for children during their 30-year career.
In addition, teachers may be utilizing extra-low sinks and child-height computers and whiteboards – not to mention, sitting on the floor with students. Is there really any question why back pain when standing is experienced?
Stress, especially if you are a first year teacher learning the curriculum, how to write lesson plans, classroom management and paperwork. Stress may prevent getting a good night’s sleep, resulting in the search for remedies for insomnia. Spreading of germs on surfaces – desks, cafeteria tables and doorknobs.
Teachers can improve their health by implementing the recommendations listed below:
Use a specially designed chair or floor cushion for low seating.
Use a high stool instead of standing for hours.
Use a height adjustable table.
Transport heavy paperwork or equipment on a wheeled trolley.
Stretch and move frequently – get up and walk around every 20 minutes or so.
Avoid excessive reaching and twisting by arranging items on your desk.
Wear comfortable, supportive shoes – possibly with orthotics, if necessitated.
Maintain ergonomically correct workstations.
Learn how to improve posture and lift, bend and carry correctly.
Pilates exercises can certainly help easy the back pain and help with other issues.
The important principles of Pilates are consistent with an exercise program that promotes back health. In particular, learning awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support this alignment are important skills for the back pain patient.
Below are some of the Pilates benefits:
longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
improves postural problems.
increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility.
helps prevent injury.
enhances functional fitness, ease of movement.
balances strength & flexibility.
heightens body awareness
For further information, please do not hesitate in contact us.
info@connecthealthandfitness.com