Network Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 39

KETTLEBELLS with Dan Henderson The posterior chain is the most influential group of muscles in the body, so it’s essential that it’s trained correctly and consistently. Studies have shown the kettlebell to be one of the most effective training tools for this purpose. The kettlebell swing significantly activates the gluteal muscles, and also activates lower back extensor and abdominal muscle activity to keep the integrity of the spine and transfer hip drive to the kettlebell. The snatch and kettlebell variations, such as walking swings, complement the traditional kettlebell swing. Unilateral hip hinge movements such as the single-leg deadlift are terrific for training the lateral sub-system and the smaller stabiliser muscles. FREESTYLE with Kirsty Nield PILATES with Wendi Carroll Most trainers are familiar with the benefits gained from using a foam roller for self-myofascial release. Now it’s time to use this piece of apparatus to help your clients improve their posture and strengthen their posterior chain. These simple Pilates exercises can be performed on the floor to begin with, and then progressed onto the foam roller for added feedback and intensity. This is a great way to begin any workout, as clients will mobilise their hips and shoulders, activate their core and turn on their glutes. AQUA with Dominic Gili This sequence focuses on strengthening the posterior chain of muscles, from head to toe. Each compound exercise works multiple muscle groups, all of which focus on the back of the body. These include serratus, trapezius, latissimus, rhomboids, posterior delts, glutes, hamstrings and calves. Combining standing and floor work, this combination will not only help condition the back of the body, it will also elevate the heart rate and will require core activation – an added bonus! Use this simple, yet challenging combination in any ‘conditioning’ style class or as a warm up or cool down for HIIT sessions. Your aqua fitness class may be the only time of day that your participants aren’t sitting for an extended period of time. Take this opportunity to stretch anterior muscles while strengthening posterior muscles to keep the body upright and improve posture – and explain to participants why it’s great for them! The multidirectional resistance of the fluid environment makes water workouts super-efficient due to the double concentric muscle action. Working the muscles that keep the body strong in the upright position, the posterior chain, should be a constant focus, so be sure to program exercises in the sagittal plane, such as Cross Country Ski or Kicks Front/Back. PRESENTER PROFILE: ROBERT STEINBACHER A former gymnast, Robert started his career as a dancer and choreographer in one of the most popular dance academies in New York. Since then he has gained over 20 years of international experience as an educator, presenter and choreographer. As a movement therapist, he created the bodyART training system. His latest training creation is deepWORK, holistic functional training with cardio interval-based movements. One of Europe's biggest movement and mind centres, bodyART has educated thousands of instructors and bodyworkers worldwide. With his unique knowledge, experience and movement skills, Robert is renowned for his charisma and transformative message of creativity. bodyart-training.com NETWORK SPRING 2017 | 39