Work -the exertion or effort directed to produce or accomplish something;
Efficiency – the state or quality of being efficient or able to accomplish something with the least waste of time and effort; competency in performance.
As F. M. Alexander says in his seminal book “Man’s Supreme Inheritance”:
“Each faculty acquires fitness for its function by performing its function; and if its function is performed for it by a substituted agency, none of the required adjustment of nature takes place, but the nature becomes deformed to fit the artificial arrangements instead of the natural arrangements”. Yet, the neck is often used as a “helper” which it is not when it is contracted.
In this statement, he is saying that if you need your legs and abdominals to strongly support the work of lifting a barbell off the floor and overhead, you would not recruit your neck muscles as a source of power – instead you want to recruit your abs and legs appropriately, engaging them in the most efficient targeted way.
The Olympics are a great place to observe the athlete moving with efficiency. The 1500 meter free swim is a daunting race that requires power, efficiency with each stroke, consistency, and the mental strength to both hang on and increase speed in the last 500 meters. Every sport has some aspect of this challenge. Efficiency is everything because once you have it strength and coordination follow.
Strength building is accessing the right muscles for the right job. Think about the different body types of athletes: 100 meter men’s athletes have more developed upper bodies and thighs to propel their arms and legs to produce explosive energy and speed. 1500 meter athletes would not be well served by this body type for a race 15 times longer than the 100 meters Their bodies are toned but light in comparison – suitable for less explosive power in exchange for longer distance staying power.
It is interesting to observe though that even within one sport, bodies can differ according to the desired aesthetic and skill level. Russian female gymnasts train for grace and a balletic themed result ,and less for achieving the muscular approach needed to do multiple flips and twists in the air on balance beam and floor like the U.S. gymnasts .
Chinese gymnasts train with a more dance and flexibility emphasis. Their bodies, like their diving counterparts are lean and straight with fewer curves. Regardless of the body type emanating from training through targeting certain muscles to get the job done in the most efficient manner or through the differences in hereditary similarities internationally, principles of work and efficiency are key to achieving the best results.
If you are someone who is struggling with pain and discomfort, either an athlete, dancer, or sometime sports person, I can help you become more efficient in your movements in your daily life and your chosen activity.
I offer a 15 minute free phone consultation: 973 432 5815.
