Last year I read three articles that truly caught my attention:

The Contractile Fields - A New Module of Human Movement - Parts 1, 2 and 3 by Philip Beach DO, DAC, OSNZ

The 3 Part article gives an in-depth explanation of the division of the embryonic body into "fields" of movement.

This new model, published by Elsevier is based on basic developmental concepts of embryology and evolutionary biomechanics of vertebrate movement patterns. It describes the fields of interacting contractility. Contractile fields are whole organism in scope and are drawn from core mammalian movement patterns.

• Flexion/Extension – Dorsal/Ventral CF (Contractile Fields)
• Lateral/Flexion – Lateral/CF
• Twisting/Rotation – Helical CF
  • This is a combination of D/V, L, H, CF
• Circular (Narrowing) Radial CF

These fields of contractility are textile like as in a “warp and weft-like” behavior and according to Phillip beach, “river-like” as in widening and narrowing. They converge to nodes and from there re-radiate. Each CF also neurologically prioritizes specific sensory organ function and supports optimal internal organ function.

Example:

• D/V, Olfactory – Smell
• Lateral, Otic – Hearing and Balance
• Helical, Limp Fields – Empowering Helical Fields
• Radial, Oral and Anal Sphincter – Core Contrology

Focus: The Radial Field

The Radial Field is the Postural Field

Dominant or compensation patterns in the other CF will shorten or buckle the body. The radial contractile field is a field of contractility of which its primary function is to squeeze the body wall and thus preserve its longitudinal integrity (the spine). Furthermore, by a squeezing and sucking motion, it massages the internal organs.

Radial Field Structures

• Transverse Abdominals which migrated from longitudinal structures (erector spinae muscles) t o the front
• Same deep layer as anterior scalene  intercostal, QL, diaphragm/ levator ani (Pelvic Floor)
• The diaphragm originates from the neck (C3-5) while the ribs migrate forward they drag the TA with it
• Functional dynamic activation of these structures: is singing, shouting, foot stomping, jumping, lifting and pushing

These are activities really neglected in our desk bound society. Also, we are exposed to gym and fitness equipment that is really designed after compartmentalization theory (dissection), thus isolation. Therefore not addressing the radial system. This radial system courses throughout the body from deep to superficial, from dorsal to ventral.

Pilates Activities to Address and Engage the Radial Field (Core)

1. Weight Shift Core Test
   1. Weight slightly forward on the feet activates local system
   2. Weight Back Compensation – activates global system
2. Foot and Leg Work: Elevate the Reformer from the Back
3. Jump Board Work: Bare feet!
4. Wunda Chair: Seated on SmartSpine Cervical Disc and possibly overhead resistance
5. Standing on the Reformer: Cuing Pelvic Floor
6. Short Box: Breathe, Rotation (Magic Circle)
7. Squatting: Sit to Stand (This is movement from which ALL movement is "tuned")

All of these exercises integrate into walking. Just simple walking with good postural alignment activates 45% of the entire core structure all of the time.

Philip Beach is currently completing his soon to be released new book titled Muscles and Meridians - The Manipulation of Shape. This book is due out in August/September 2010. I am currently in communication with Dr. Beach with the hopes of hosting him for an exclusive LBDC alumni and Pilates community workshop.