Why You Should Learn Pilates
If you're considering taking Pilates classes but have doubts whether you can keep up, think of it this way: Joseph Pilates, the inventor of the exercise system, practiced his method well into his eighties. Plus, there's real science to back up Pilate's health benefits, especially for older adults.
A study published in the medical journal "Spine" reported the effects of Pilates exercise on the postural alignment in adults over sixty years old. After following a group of thirty-four people who were involved in a ten-week Pilates program, researchers discovered that their posture improved substantially.
The basic principle of Pilates works by strengthening and lengthening muscles in a balanced way. Core strength is the objective in all Pilates programs; it's important to keep core muscles strong as we age in order to avoid back injuries. Other benefits include relieving pains in the neck, back, and shoulders, as well as building bone density, balance, flexibility, muscle tone, and stamina. Pilates has also been shown to promote a general feeling of wellbeing. Another reason Pilates is particularly suitable for older adults is that exercises can be modified to meet specific needs.
One hitch is the cost. Private Pilates sessions can be expensive ($75 or more) and even group classes can get costly. Check out your local YMCA or senior center, where classes may be cheaper. The good news is that easy-to-follow beginner's DVDs may be all you need. (The original exercise program developed by Joseph Pilates called for large and complicated equipment. But although there are still teachers who use that equipment, a modern adaptation of the program uses less bulky and more inexpensive equipment like mats and exercise balls.)
If you do choose to take classes and have medical issues, first check with your doctor. Also, make sure your Pilates instructor is certified. Keep in mind that a good instructor will offer cues for exercise modifications, and classes should be small enough so that individual instruction is available.
Also Popular On ThirdAge:
