Pilates Blog

Marian Gaborik is still weeks from playing, but he’s also ahead of schedule as he rehabs his way back from left hip surgery.

Gaborik, who had surgery Jan. 5, wasn’t expected to skate until six weeks after surgery. He hopes to begin skating next week — Week 5.

Gaborik began rehab immediately after surgery at Vail’s Steadman Hawkins Clinic, spending three weeks there. He’s rehabbed nearly seven days a week, twice a day, doing everything from swimming to Pilates. Wednesday, he started to run.

“I’m going back to Vail next Wednesday for a few days of follow-up,” Gaborik said. “I’m hoping to also start skating next week – probably for 15 minutes, three times a week. I’ll slowly go from there. I just want to make sure everything goes good.”

Minnesota's Marian Gaborik is hoisted by teammates Keith Carney, left, and Sean Hill after Gaborik scored five goals in a 6-3 win against the Rangers

“This is more stuff than I did with my other hip,” said Gaborik, who underwent right hip surgery in May. “Still, all the muscles around the hip need to be strengthened.

I still can’t do all the moves, but it’s going in the right direction.  But I’ve progressed a lot.

Pilates will also  strengthen the important muscles that are engaged during hockey, such as the obliques (for shot power), glutes (for power on the skates), and joint stabilizer muscles (to prevent injuries).   Pilates can also help with balance, stability,  body awareness in space and will keep you playing  long and strong.