If you have read the first part of this series of blog posts, you will probably remember how Peter describes the influence of circular moves on movement sequences. How round movements play an important role when looking at the musculature, be it in terms of holistic activation, stabilization, functionality in everyday life or coordination. Or what role physics plays when centrifugal and centripetal forces act in correspondingly round movements.
In this part, Peter zooms in on specific considerations. Which ones? Let him surprise you...
Peter Öttler
BailongBall enthusiast, trainer & TBBF board member
Eurhytmia
(an anthroposophical art of movement)
Round movements are often used in Eurhythmics as they convey a sense of flow, continuity and harmony. These movements create the ability to link different aspects of the body and music.
Here are a few examples of eurhythmic round movements:
By making circular movements with their arms, dancers can emphasize the melody or rhythm of a piece of music. These movements can be stylish and flowing. If the dancers turn on their own axis, they can create a sense of movement and dynamics.
In circular footwork, the feet are often involved in round movements, whether through circular steps or turns on the spot.
Spiral dynamics
Round movements are very important in spiral dynamics, a concept for movement analysis and therapy, in order to maintain and restore the body's natural ability to move. Here are a few points of view on how to use round movements in spiral dynamics:
The natural spiral movement of the body is regarded as the basic principle of spiral dynamics. Incorporating spirals into movement processes helps to increase functional mobility and reduce stress on the joints.
An important component of spiral dynamics is rotation around the spine. The different spinal segments are mobilized and stabilized through targeted circular movements and rotations.
Coordination of the arms and legs is very important for circular movements in spiral dynamics. The integration of spirals into movement processes strengthens the connections between the different regions of the body.
The application of spiral dynamics in physiotherapy aims to use circular sequences to eliminate movement restrictions, reduce pain and improve posture.
By using circular movements in spiral dynamics, those affected can improve their body awareness, increase their mobility and prevent or treat musculoskeletal complaints.
Anatomy and movement science
A fundamental principle in anatomy and movement science is the natural spiral movement of the body. Circular and spiral movements are crucial for different movement sequences and for the functionality and health of the human body. Here are a few points that describe the natural spiral movement:
The human spine has a spiral shape. This spiral shape allows the spine to be moved, cushioned and loaded while remaining stable.
Rotation or turning around one's own axis is an essential part of the natural spiral movement. This movement is performed in different areas of the body, such as the spine, arms and legs.
Muscle chains are known in anatomy as connecting lines between different parts of the body. These muscle chains often show spiral patterns that allow complex movements and functions.
For efficient and harmonious movement, the body's spiral movement patterns must be used in a coordinated manner. Effective coordination of the muscle chains and movement sequences can help to increase performance and reduce the risk of injury.
The knowledge and targeted application of the body's natural spiral movement is of great importance in areas such as sport, physiotherapy, dance and yoga. By promoting these movement patterns, injuries can be avoided, performance improved and health supported.
Recognizing and consciously using the body's natural spiral movement can help to improve the quality of movement, optimize posture and support the overall function of the musculoskeletal system.
Taichi Chuan QiGong Baguhazang
In the classical movement arts of China, circular movements play an important role. These movements are not only visually appealing, but also have profound functional and energetic meanings. Below are some aspects that explain the significance of circular movements in Traditional Chinese Movement Arts (TCMA):
Flow and continuity
The circular movements in the traditional Chinese arts of movement (TCB) are characterized by a harmonious and continuous flow. This flowing nature promotes the harmonization of the energy throughout the body and helps to dissolve blockages.
Centering and stability
Performing circular movements helps to center and stabilize the body. The circular gestures help to improve balance and strengthen the physical structure.
Relaxation and suppleness
Round movements in traditional Chinese movement arts (TCMA) promote increased relaxation and suppleness in execution. By releasing tension and maintaining loose muscles, movement can be made more efficient and fluid.
Energy work
In the traditional Chinese arts of movement (TCMA), great importance is attached to working with the life energy Qi. Circular movements promote the flow of Qi in the body and help to direct it in order to improve health and well-being.
Meditative aspects
Performing circular movements in traditional Chinese movement arts (TCMA) can reveal meditative qualities. By focusing on the flowing sequence of movements and being present in the moment, mind and body can be brought into harmony.
The practice of circular movements in Taichi Chuan and other traditional Chinese movement arts such as Qigong and Baguhazang offers numerous health, energetic and spiritual benefits. The regular practice of these movements enables people to increase their physical fitness, reduce stress and improve their overall quality of life.
Geriatrics and circular movements
In geriatrics, circular movements are of great importance for the rehabilitation and mobilization of the elderly. Such movements promote mobility and flexibility, strengthen the muscles and help to maintain balance. They can also reduce pain and stiffness and therefore improve the quality of life of older people.
Examples of circular movements in geriatrics:
Gymnastics, cycling, swimming and dancing. These activities help to improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen muscles and maintain balance.
Pediatrics
Circular movements offer children and adolescents a variety of health benefits. Below are some of the positive effects that these movements can have on young people:
Coordination and balance
By training circular movement patterns, adolescents and children can improve their coordination and balance. These movement patterns require precise control of the body and promote the development of motor skills.
Flexibility and mobility
Circular movements help to increase the flexibility and mobility of muscles and joints. This is particularly important for growing children as it supports their physical development and prevents injuries.
Strengthening the muscles
Regularly performing circular movements allows adolescents and children to strengthen their muscles. This not only helps to improve physical fitness, but also promotes healthy posture and body structure.
Stress reduction and relaxation
Circular movements can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Especially in today's world, where young people are often confronted with various pressures, such movements are an important way of coping with stress.
Concentration and focus
Practicing circular movements requires both concentration and focus. By performing these movements, adolescents and children can sharpen their mental alertness and strengthen their ability to concentrate.
Social interaction
In certain sports or movement arts that involve circular movements, such as dance or martial arts, young people and children also benefit from social interaction with their peers. This promotes social development and team spirit.
Integrating circular movement into the daily lives of young people and children enables them to not only stay physically healthy, but also benefit from the positive effects on their mental health and social development. It is crucial that movement is enjoyable for young people and supports them holistically to lead a healthy and active life.
Child and adolescent psychiatry
Circular movements are not used directly in child and adolescent psychiatry, but are used in other contexts such as developmental pediatrics, rehabilitation and group work.
However, circular movements can be used as part of a comprehensive movement therapy or training program to promote the motor and social skills of children and young people.
You see, no matter how you look at it, the round plays an important role in our lives and thus goes far beyond the geometric. But what role does it play in our sport? What does our sport make of it and what role can it play as a result?
Read this and more in the last part of this multi-part blog post.
Peter Öttler
BailongBall Trainer
Immer wenn es spannend wird …..
Lieber Peter, vielen Dank für deinen überaus interessanten Beitrag mit diesen vielen Hintergrundinfos. Da ist vieles, über das ich mir noch nie Gedanken gemacht habe. Ich freue mich schon auf die Fortsetzung (Teil 2, Teil 3?).
Hallo Peter, herzlichen Dank für diese super Hintergrundinformationen!