How Pilates Helped an FFC Member Finish the Chicago Marathon
There is nothing easy about training for a marathon; it requires dedication, discipline, and strategy. For Channing (Silky) Harris, a fitness enthusiast and weightlifter, Pilates at FFC turned out to be the unexpected key to completing the Chicago Marathon. Keep reading to learn how Silky’s journey with Pilates and running helped him cross the Chicago Marathon finish line.
An Unexpected Start to Pilates
Two years ago, Silky’s wife, FFC Pilates Instructor Raven Harris, encouraged Silky to try Pilates. Initially, he was skeptical. “I was so used to hitting the weights hard that Pilates didn’t seem challenging enough,” Silky admits. However, one class was enough to transform his perspective. “I instantly felt the full body engagement, and the endorphins would help me go right into my workout afterward,” he says.
After that first class, Pilates became a consistent part of Silky’s workout routine. Silky developed a custom training schedule: a biweekly private Pilates session, a weekly small Pilates apparatus class, and a weekly Pilates mat class.
Transformative Effects of Consistent Pilates
Silky noticed the physical impacts of Pilates immediately. He attributes losing over 40 pounds while maintaining core strength and muscle definition to his regular Pilates practice. In addition to the visible transformation, the internal benefits were equally impactful. “The breathwork and calmness that Pilates introduced transitioned well into my deadlifts, bench press, and runs,” Silky explains.
Tackling the Chicago Marathon
Silky was inspired to run the Chicago Marathon after experiencing the event’s energy firsthand at Peace Runner’s cheer station, watching his friends run the race. He made the decision to run the full 26.2 miles the following year, determined to be a part of the atmosphere.
Training for the marathon proved to be a part-time job. The regimented routine included long runs on Sundays, midweek 3-5 mile runs, and casual Saturday jogs. Amongst the physical and mental challenges of marathon training, Pilates became the unexpected key to his success.
Pilates as a Secret Weapon for Strength and Recovery
The post-run Pilates sessions were challenging, but incredibly beneficial. “Pilates after a long run was absolute torture,” Silky recalls, “but the refreshment my body would feel after pushing through a full session was always worth it.” He credits Pilates with opening his hips, improving his posture, and helping his body recover faster from long runs.
Pilates played a crucial role in protecting Silky’s body from injury throughout his marathon training and on race day. The focus on core stability and flexibility helped Silky safely attack this long-distance run.
A Marathon Experience To Remember
On race day, Silky was ready. Any nerves he once had were replaced with excitement when he was once again surrounded by the energy of the Chicago Marathon. “It wasn’t as bad as once feared,” he states. “Chicago and the crowd’s energy really made each mile so much more electric than those quiet practice runs.” The combination of Pilates and endurance training paid off, helping him reach the finish line injury-free.
The Future of Pilates and Running for Silky
Silky’s commitment to Pilates remains strong. “I will absolutely be continuing Pilates,” he says. “It keeps my body feeling agile and ready for all the rigorous workouts I throw at it.” While he plans to take a break from long-distance running for now, Pilates will continue to be part of his fitness routine.
Silky’s Chicago Marathon story is a testament to the power of Pilates. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply looking to enhance your overall fitness, Pilates at FFC can be the tool that keeps you strong, balanced, and ready to tackle your wellness goals.
