Is Pilates safe for people over 55? What are the benefits?

Pilates offers numerous benefits for people 55 and over, including improving balance and stability. Pilates helps strengthen core muscles to improve posture and reduce back pain. It can also help with increasing flexibility and range of motion, as well as improving circulation and joint health. Unlike other disciplines, Pilates helps build strength without putting excess strain on joints. It is very low-impact, which makes it a safe and effective form of exercise for those with arthritis or joint pain. Regular Pilates practice has been shown to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

How can Pilates help alleviate my back pain?

Pilates helps alleviate back pain by strengthening core and back muscles to improve stability and support. By helping improve posture and promoting proper alignment, it can help reduce strain on the back and neck. Pilates can also increasing flexibility to reduce overall tightness and stiffness. A regular Pilates practice can also lead to improving body awareness, which will help you correct habits that may contribute to back pain (like poor posture at your desk!).

How can Pilates help me recover from an injury?

If you are injured, you should consult with your physician, who may prescribe physical therapy for your injury. I am not a physical therapist, but Pilates can sometimes be used to supplement physical therapy for people with injuries. Pilates can aid you in your recovery by improving flexibility and joint mobility, and strengthening core muscles to support the spine and joints. Pilates is also fantastic for promoting balanced muscle development to prevent future injury, improving posture to reduce stress on joints, and developing body awareness to detect and address imbalances.

Can Pilates help me lose weight?

Pilates can be helpful for weight loss, but it is not necessarily a primary weight loss tool. While Pilates does not burn as many calories as high-intensity cardio exercises like running or jumping rope, it can still be an effective way to burn calories and build muscle. Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on developing core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Pilates exercises are typically low-impact and emphasize controlled movements and breathing techniques. While Pilates may not burn as many calories as some other forms of exercise, it can help improve overall fitness and body composition, which can in turn support weight loss goals. Additionally, Pilates can be helpful for weight loss because it can help increase muscle mass. Muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue, even at rest. By increasing muscle mass through Pilates, individuals may be able to boost their metabolism and burn more calories throughout the day.

I’m interested! What do I need to get started?

Before starting a Pilates practice, you will need comfortable clothing that allows for ease of movement, a Pilates mat or a soft surface to exercise on, and a positive attitude and willingness to learn. That’s it! If you enjoy it, and can regularly commit to practice, you will soon see benefits. When you are ready to elevate your practice (no rush!), you may want to purchase some optional equipment such as resistance bands, foam rollers, and exercise balls. But make sure Pilates is right for you before investing in too much extra gear.

How will I feel after a Pilates session? Will it be hard?

I develop a unique program for each of my private clients after consulting with them on their current level of fitness, status of any injuries, and especially their goals. I want you to feel energized and proud of yourself after your Pilates session. Will it be hard? That’s all up to you!