What’s an Oov?
The unique curves of the Oov is designed to support the natural curvature of our spine to provide stability and/or mobility depending on where it is needed. It is made of a dense foam that’s engineered to compress under the user’s weight to a certain point, after which it will push back against the user, giving the body feedback and thus increasing body awareness.
What are the benefits of using an Oov?
- allows for engagement of stabilising muscles when performing various movements, therefore improving mobility combined with its improved stability
- creates efficient movement patterns that strengthens the body in a controlled, coordinated and effective manner
- promotes joint mobility and stability, endurance, strength and proper alignment
- encourages balance training in most exercises done on the Oov and therefore helps clients master complex movement patterns
What are the movement exercises you can do on the Oov?
Due to the unique shape of the Oov, it gives the body more space to move in all dimensions. With the added state of instability, even without the user knowing it, core control is automatically turned on. The Oov is very versatile and can be used on a mat with props as well as with all other Pilates equipment.
Most basic Pilates movements can be performed on the Oov, but with the added instability they become more fun and challenging! To effectively perform exercises on the Oov, slow and controlled movements is emphasised more than the range of movement or number of repetitions. Taking time through the movements gives the body more time to figure out how to stabilise and how to move effectively.
Thus, do not be surprised when you hear instructors say, “It’s not how far you bring that arm or leg out, but how you get there that matters!”
Here are some examples of how the usual movement exercises become more effective when done on the Oov –
Side lying series: The placement of the Oov allows for activation of the side line of our bodies as well as the movement of side flexion with the support on the underside to ensure spine remains elongated whilst doing the exercise.
Supine exercises: This position on your back works to lengthen the spine and allows more efficient diaphragmatic breathing. It also allows for increased mobility in segmental spine movement as well as hips and shoulders, all while core control is achieved!
Standing exercises: By standing on different orientations of the Oov, it increases the information to various parts of our feet and ankle. And thus, activates either the front or back line of our bodies to allow more symmetrical and bilateral strategy used in the foot and ankle.
Fiona Ho, Instructor
Mayni Leong, Instructor
If you want to sign up for our Oov class, you can drop us an email at bookings@focusmovement.sg or for more queries, email info@focusmovement.sg.