Issue 1 - November 2003

For the full version of these articles please download the PDF version.

Key articles in this issue:

Pilates and Core Stability by Tessa Main

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Pilates trains correct patterning and control, resulting in a functionally strong and supple body. Lower back pain, leg pain, shoulder and neck tension, tennis/golfer’s elbow and hamstring tightness are common complaints that are attributable to a lack of core stability. Pilates is the key to helping you prevent and overcome injuries and maximise comfort and performance, whatever level of sport or activity you are at...

Core Stability and Lower Back Pain by Mark Saunders

Exercising on an unstable base like an exercise ball helps to stimulate the core stabilisers and wake them up. As a result of inactivity, a sedentary lifestyle or previous back injuries, the core stabilisers become weak and often are not easily recruited. With regular stimulation and mental focus your core stability will improve and those muscles that have been inactive will, over a period of time, start to activate automatically...

Why is Exercise so Important? by Daniel Wellard

It is well documented that activity within society has fallen considerably in the past quarter of a century. This has led to a rise in obesity and therefore many health related problems. However by making positive changes to an inactive lifestyle these problems can be reduced. A great deal of research has shown that performing regular exercise reduces the chance of suffering from many health related problems, including:

Handling Pressure by Allison Dyer

Some individuals thrive on the pressure a competitive environment creates. Pressure is perceived as challenging and creates an alertness and sense of determination or the individual to achieve their goals. However, for many individuals the pressure of competition can have a detrimental effect on performance. Pressure can induce feelings of anxiety which can lead to tenseness and nervousness. Concentration may consequently be disrupted and decision-making hindered...

This month's Patient Advice: Ankle Sprains

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