How does MBAM compares to other methods of core conditioning?
How MBAM is different from Pilates:
* shorter learning curve although based on the same principles of length, alignment, control, fluidity of movement and breath,
* one very small piece of equipment to work with vs. the bulky, heavy and very expensive Pilates equipment; the dolly is economical, portable and versatile,
* much more challenging earlier into the training process, because of the shorter learning curve, one taps into more acrobatic moves sooner than with the Pilates method,
* the MBAM is all the fun of the Pilates work, but without some of the more tedious, old fashioned moves. I always look forward to “play” with my dollies, see how to tweak some of the moves…
How MBAM is different from other Core training programs:
* many Core programs limit the “Core” to the torso muscles. The includes all muscles of the torso as well as those originating in the torso to move the limbs, such as hamstrings, adductors, pectorals, triceps…
* while rightfully emphasizing “bracing” to stabilize and strengthen the torso, other core programs ignore that the spine should move in all planes. A thick tree is resilient but can break, whereas the strength of the willow resides in its ability to return to “standing” even after the deepest bends/twists.
* bracing against gravity is good, but it is more challenging, as in the MBAM, to resist and control traction, as the dolly is constantly “pulling away” from the starting point. It increases the eccentric load (stretch) to the primary movers (muscles) and requires more force to be applied during the positive phase of the movement which leads to quicker strength gains.
* did I mention how much fun it is to roll around and play while feeling your whole body engaged in each movement? After some of the most advanced exercises, heart rates are as high as if running a 100 meters!
How MBAM is different from other Core program with props:
* the big physioballs are a lot of fun and I do use them a lot too…but you can’t beat the small size and portability of the dollies; constantly deflating and re-inflating the balls isn’t a practical option,
* the big physioballs are a lot of fun and I do use them a lot too…but you can’t beat the small size and portability of the dollies; constantly deflating and re-inflating the balls isn’t a practical option,
* Bosu, like the physioballs, is fun but bulky and heavy, and has recently be shown to create “dysfunctional stability” (i.e. standing on top of the dome, feet slightly supinate - inversion-, creating a whole kinetic chain of compensation up to the pelvis and spine)
* most other prop based programs do not take the muscles to the outer limits of a concentric contraction; in the MBAM, we are constantly eccentrically loading the movements’ primary movers (muscles), which has repeatedly be shown to increase strength faster.
* many methods are good and can help beginners get stronger, but the MBAM is the one to chose if you want to reach your highest possible fitness level.
