Parents,
I wanted to give you all a deeper understanding of what happens in my sessions with your boys; from what I teach, to what I have experienced.
First and foremost my sessions with FSA are more than a 'stretch class.' I am introducing them to the world of kinesiology and anatomy. This includes the insertion and origin of their muscles, the proper function of their joints, the musculoskeletal balance and biomechanics. I concentrate intensely on proper technique for strengthening and lengthening their muscles and emphasize the importance of proper form at all times.
Learning and understanding these concepts will help them recognize imbalance/weaknesses and discomfort versus pain. Being able to identify this makes it possible to have a clear plan to strengthen or repair. Having the knowledge of daily exercises / stretches keeps them feeling agile and helps recovery time. Our bodies are our instruments. We would never drag our violin on the floor nor leave it out in the rain and then expect for it to sound and work properly. This is an extreme example, but you get the concept.
I have informed the team of this, here are my expectations. If I ask a question, it is imperative that they me give feedback. This is crucial so that I know they are understanding the concepts. Mastery of understanding their own musculoskeletal system is the goal. I also addressed my expectation of mutual respect for each other which includes eye contact, saying hello and goodbye.
Correct gear for Strength & Conditioning sessions: *Non-Slip Yoga mats, *100% FOAM rollers (no PVC wrapped rollers) *canvas Yoga straps, *purple resistance Theraband (I have given the boys one of these), *jump rope and *2 tennis balls) they should bring all of these to each session.
As far as attire is concerned, we spend ample time with feet and legs up. Gravity takes over and shorts fall. A majority of the players spend a healthy amount of time pulling at their shorts in order to not expose themselves. Because of this, I have repeatedly expressed the importance for them to wear biker or compression shorts under their training shorts. In the colder months I am not opposed to long pants, but they must be compression or leggings/ tights. Baggy warm ups or sweats do not work as it hinders my, and their, ability to see movements and ensure correct form. Socks are not to be worn during class, this is for safety reasons.
I am here because I believe in the team, the mission and the boys. Stephane believes this to be a vital element to the long term of any player who wants to succeed.
If your player wants to be in my sessions, it is a joy for me to instruct. It becomes unenjoyable if I am forced to spend time getting players focused and correcting behavior. I have let the team know that I will not compete with them to be heard. If they choose this time to mess around and not listen to instruction, they will be asked to leave the session.
Lastly, I would like to point out that the Pilates Method, which is an ample amount of what I do with the team, is not only an exercise method, it has been used for decades in the professional dance world for injury prevention and rehabilitation. It is precise. Form is everything. This is primarily why I prefer sessions be in person and not via Zoom. Having the ability to be eyes on is a game changer. HOWEVER, I dislike driving on icy roads SO.... if weather is bad, this NYC, Los Angeles, Houstonian woman would rather see them as tiny squares on Zoom rather than slide around on the road : ) I know some of you travel from quite far so would give you as much notice as possible.
Lots of information to relay…….I have been fortunate to have specific conversations with a handful of parents, but not all. It was important for me inform you of some of what we work on. I needed to lay out expectations.
You should know that if the door to the FSA field is ever closed during my sessions, it is only for noise reasons. You are more than welcome to come in and observe at any time.
I thank you all and Stephane for entrusting the well being of your player to me. It's exciting to watch games and see the boys improving in physical ways and in their movement. I greatly appreciate those of you who have expressed your gratitude or told me stories from your player and how they, themselves, have noticed improvements. Thank you!
-Please have the boys bring all gear/equipment for each session.
It is a pleasure to work with the team.
In gratitude,
Michelle Starlin
fun info:
https://awaken.com/2018/05/top-15-athletes-who-do-yoga/
https://www.ten.co.uk/pilates-for-football
https://www.si.com/edge/2017/02/22/health-benefits-of-pilates-athletes
