In the world of American football, Dexter Lawrence is a force to be reckoned with. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses often leaves them scratching their heads, wondering what hit them. One memorable instance was when he sealed the New York Giants’ wild-card win over the Minnesota Vikings with a bone-crushing hit on quarterback Kirk Cousins. The pressure from Lawrence forced Cousins to make a hasty throw, ultimately falling short of a first down. With seven pressures, four QB hits, three hurries, and six tackles (including one for loss), Lawrence was a key player in the Giants’ first playoff victory since 2012.
But it wasn’t just his physical prowess that set Lawrence apart. In a moment of celebration, he jokingly credited his success to Pilates, shouting to his teammate Leonard Williams, “That Pilates be getting me right.” This revelation raised some eyebrows – could a 6-foot-4, 340-pound All-Pro QB hunter truly be engaging in a workout traditionally favored by ballerinas in New York City?
“It’s a lot of core work, which helps with my lower back,” Lawrence explained. “Just focusing on flexibility and strengthening different areas of my body.” While some may find it amusing, NFL players are known to go to great lengths to improve their performance. Many have turned to ballet and other forms of dance to supplement their traditional training routines.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips, for example, swears by Pilates. “I voluntarily go to shake like a leaf and hold myself in these extremely challenging positions,” he shared. “It not only makes my body stronger but also strengthens my mind, soul, and spirit. I always leave Pilates with a glow.”
As Phillips demonstrated his routine, contorting his body under the guidance of his instructor, it’s clear that Pilates is no walk in the park. The 6-foot-5, 263-pound linebacker rolled himself up, extending his legs and inching his lower back toward the table. With each movement, he focused on steady breathing, an essential component of the practice.
So, don’t be quick to dismiss the unconventional methods that some NFL players use to stay at the top of their game. Whether it’s ballet, Pilates, or some other form of dance-inspired workout, these athletes are willing to put in the work to be the best. And if it means contorting their bodies in ways that defy their size and strength, then so be it. After all, in the high-stakes world of professional football, every advantage counts.
