We move through life without much thought about what’s actually happening beneath the surface—until something feels off. But what if you could decode the language of your muscles, unlocking strength, control, and confidence in every movement?

In this episode of Modern Body: Pilates & Movement for Life, Aly DiRoma peels back the layers of movement science, revealing how your muscles work and why understanding them can transform the way you move—on and off the mat. From the power of a concentric contraction (think: lifting your coffee cup) to the slow-burn strength of an isometric hold (hello, plank shakes!), Aly breaks down muscle mechanics in a way that’s both practical and eye-opening.

And here’s the kicker: You don’t have to memorize the terms. You just need to feel them. When you understand what’s happening in your body, every movement—whether it’s a squat, a stretch, or simply reaching for a high shelf—becomes more intentional and effective.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What muscle contractions actually are (and why they matter)
• Why strengthening your muscles while you lengthen them is so crucial.
• The surprising way isometric work builds endurance and joint stability
• How Pilates naturally incorporates all types of muscle engagement
• The secret to making every movement count—so you don’t have to work more, just smarter

"Once you know this, you can’t unknow it. It changes how you move, how you feel in your body, and how you show up in everyday life." — Aly DiRoma

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a new appreciation for the way your muscles support you every single day.

Try It for Yourself

Want to put this knowledge into practice? Start with a Groundwork class inside Modern Body Studio! With a free 7-day trial, you’ll get access to over 300 classes designed for all stages of life and movement experience. Join now. https://modernbody.uscreen.io/

And if you love diving deep into movement mechanics, grab a copy of the Modern Mover’s Guide—the perfect companion to your Modern Body practice. Get yours here. https://modernmoversguide.com/guide 

Connect with Aly DiRoma

Have a movement aha! moment? Let’s talk about it! Find Aly here:  https://link.me/alydiroma