As runners prepare for major events like the London Marathon, training often focuses on mileage and pace, but incorporating Pilates can significantly improve performance and reduce injury risk. Running is repetitive and high-impact, placing strain on key muscle groups like the calves, hamstrings, and hip flexors while often neglecting smaller stabilising muscles and the deeper core, leading to imbalances and overuse injuries. Pilates helps correct this by strengthening the core including the back, hips, and pelvis, allowing runners to maintain better posture and alignment, especially during long distances when fatigue sets in.
Pilates can significantly support marathon training by improving efficiency, strength, and control:
Greater stability → reduces wasted energy and improves overall efficiency
Controlled flexibility → lengthens tight muscles without losing strength, promoting a smoother stride
Better breathing → ribcage expansion increases oxygen intake and endurance
Stronger glutes → more powerful strides and less strain on knees and lower back
Improved balance & coordination → especially in single-leg movements, helping prevent injury
Even 1–2 sessions per week can make a noticeable difference, making Pilates a simple but powerful addition to your training for the London Marathon.
Want to get into running? Find running clubs here:
Clapham Chasers
Details: Large, inclusive running and triathlon club for all levels, from novice to competitive.
Sessions: Mondays, 7:00 pm on Clapham Common (near The Windmill pub), plus track sessions and weekend runs.
RUNSOC | Clapham
Details: Social, friendly group focused on running and community.
Sessions: Wednesdays, weekly 5k around Clapham Common followed by socialising.
Puresport Clapham Run Club
Details: Weekly social 5k suitable for all abilities.
Sessions: Thursdays, 7:00 am at 21 Grams, 1 Cavendish Parade.
Clapham Common Parkrun
Details: Free, weekly timed 5k run.
Sessions: Saturdays, 9:00 am on Clapham Common.
Try out Reformer Pilates at our Clapham Studio
We offer beginner & advanced reformer pilates classes as well as private sessions.
