If you’ve ever questioned whether Pilates is suitable for you as you embark on your golden years, let me assure you: age is just a number, and Pilates can be the key to unlocking a whole new chapter of vibrant living.
But how exactly does Pilates help in your senior years? Let me explain in more detail.
The concept of “age is just a number” became evident to me through personal experience and observations. Prior to the pandemic, I taught in-person Pilates classes to two distinct groups: clients aged 20 to 45 years at a local Pilates studio and seniors aged 55 and above at a specialized Seniors center.
Despite the stark age contrast, I noticed a remarkable phenomenon. I would teach a group class for the younger studio clients, I would then deliver the exact same challenging class to my senior participants. To my amazement, these seniors not only embraced the exercises with enthusiasm but also demonstrated a level of proficiency that made the Pilates exercises appear effortless.
Change Is Inevitable
As we age, we can expect some changes to occur in our bodies. As with all things in life, change is inevitable, and this applies to our bodies as well. We have many seasons of life where our bodies change and we should embrace these changes, rather than fight them.
However, expecting aches and pains to be standard in your daily living as you approach your golden years shouldn’t be the case. I want to challenge the misconception that experiencing aches and pains is an inevitable consequence of the aging process.
It is crucial to debunk this myth and shift our attention toward a more informed perspective. This is why I believe that our bodies change as we age and this also applies to our workouts. By directing your efforts towards the adoption of suitable exercise regimens such as Pilates, which include crucial elements such as mobility work, functional movement, weight-bearing exercises, and balance training, you can positively influence your aging journey and mitigate the occurrence of pain.
Types of Exercise
Targeted mobility work enhances joint flexibility and range of motion, ensuring your body remains agile and adaptable. Incorporating functional movements into your exercise routine will cultivate strength and endurance that directly translates into your daily activities and tasks.
Weight-bearing exercises, on the other hand, are instrumental in maintaining bone density and preventing the onset of osteoporosis, a common concern in the aging population. Lastly, engaging in balance training not only enhances your stability and coordination but also reduces the risk of falls, a significant contributor to injury among seniors.
When I design my Pilates classes, they focus on all of the above – mobility, functional movement, low-impact weight-bearing exercises and balance work. I take great care to ensure my Pilates classes are safe and effective while lessening the impact on your joints.
Be Proactive
I studied Gerontology at University and have a passion for helping others over the age of 50 live life with energy and vitality. I firmly believe that including appropriate Pilates exercises in your golden years will enhance your life for years to come.
By adopting this comprehensive approach to exercise, you can proactively embrace the aging process and gracefully navigate through the years, experiencing improved overall well-being and a notable reduction in pain. It is imperative to recognize that age should not confine us to a life of discomfort, but rather empower us to live with vitality and resilience.
If you are interested in trying a Pilates class, try a FREE Full Body Pilates class from my On Demand Studio.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
What have you found to be the most important factor in helping your body to move well? Do you find strength training hard to stick with? How have you incorporated exercise into your routine?
