Balance Pivot Matrix: A Must-Have Exercise for Runners

Are you ready to take your running game to the next level and unleash your inner badass on the pavement? Well, strap on those sneakers and get ready to dive into the Balance Pivot Matrix, a game-changing exercise that Coach Amanda is breaking down for us today.

So, what exactly is the Balance Pivot Matrix, and why should every badass lady runner be incorporating it into her routine? Let's break it down.

What is the Balance Pivot Matrix?

Created by the Grey Institute, the Balance Pivot Matrix is a dynamic exercise that combines elements of balance, stability, and mobility. It involves moving through a series of rotational movements while maintaining balance on one leg, challenging not only your physical strength but also your coordination and proprioception.

Why Should Runners Do It Regularly?

  1. Improves Balance and Stability: As runners, we rely on our balance and stability to navigate uneven terrain and prevent injury. The Balance Pivot Matrix helps to strengthen the muscles and joints responsible for maintaining balance, reducing the risk of falls and improving overall stability during runs.

  2. Enhances Core Strength: A strong core is essential for maintaining proper running form and preventing injuries. The rotational movements in the Balance Pivot Matrix engage the core muscles, helping to build strength and stability in this crucial area.

  3. Increases Hip Mobility: Tight hips can lead to a host of issues for runners, including decreased range of motion and increased risk of injury. The Balance Pivot Matrix incorporates dynamic hip movements that help to improve flexibility and mobility, allowing for smoother, more efficient running mechanics.

  4. Develops Proprioception: Proprioception, or the body's awareness of its position in space, is vital for runners to maintain balance and control over their movements. By challenging your proprioceptive abilities through the Balance Pivot Matrix, you'll become more in tune with your body and better able to adjust to changes in terrain while running.

  5. Prevents Overuse Injuries: Running can put a lot of repetitive stress on the same muscles and joints, increasing the risk of overuse injuries. Incorporating exercises like the Balance Pivot Matrix into your routine helps to balance out the muscular imbalances and movement patterns commonly associated with running, reducing the likelihood of injury over time.

How to Incorporate It Into Your Routine

How do you actually incorporate the Balance Pivot Matrix into your training? Start by watching Coach Amanda's how-to video, where she breaks down each movement step by step. Then, aim to incorporate the exercise into your routine 2-3 times per week, either as part of your warm-up or as a standalone workout.

Remember, like any exercise, consistency is key. Start with a few repetitions of each movement and gradually increase the intensity and duration as you become more comfortable. And don't forget to listen to your body—if something doesn't feel right, modify the movement or seek guidance from a qualified coach or instructor.

So there you have it, Badass Lady Gang: the Balance Pivot Matrix, your new secret weapon for becoming the strongest, most badass runner you can be. Lace up those sneakers, hit the mat, and get ready to unleash your inner badass on the road. You've got this!

Looking for more support? Join our BALG Training Team! Ever wished you had the support of a running coach and a team full of incredible women you genuinely look forward to connecting with every week?

Well, you’re going to LOVE the BALG Training Team. Being in our team means you’ll never train alone! Be in an inclusive team who will help you feel strong and supported. Chase your goals, overcome your fears, share your struggles, and celebrate your triumphs with us!

Our team gets access to running plans, strength x yoga videos, coaching calls, expert talks, mental game journals, and 1:1 coaching call packages.

You don’t have to be at a certain level to join the team. It is and always will be for everyone no matter where you’re at.

Kelly Roberts

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady Gang, Kelly Roberts’ pre-BALG fitness routine consisted mostly of struggling through the elliptical and trying to shrink her body. It wasn’t until hitting post-college life, poised with a theatre degree, student loans, and the onset of panic, that she found running. Running forced Kelly to ditch perfectionism and stomp out fear of failure. Viral selfies from the nyc half marathon struck a chord with women who could relate to the struggle, and soon the women’s running community Badass Lady Gang was born.

BALG is about enjoying life with a side of running. Kelly’s philosophy measures success by confidence gained, not pounds lost. If you aren’t having fun, it’s time to pivot. Kelly is an RRCA certified coach and has completed Dr. Stacy Sims ‘Women Are Not Small Men’ certification course helping coaches better serve their female athletes. Over the years Kelly has coached thousands of women from brand new runners to those chasing Boston marathon qualifying times, appeared on the cover of Women’s Running Magazine, joined Nike at the Women’s World Cup, and created a worldwide body image empowerment movement called the Sports Bra Squad. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

http://BadassLadyGang.com
Previous
Previous

The Lunge Matrix: A Must-Have Exercise For Your Pre-Run Warm Up

Next
Next

10 Common Mistakes New Runners Make (That You’re Probably Making)