Why Pilates is one of the best forms of exercise for Seniors

As we age, staying active becomes increasingly important (use it or lose it!) - yet finding the right form of exercise can be challenging especially if you have health conditions, injuries or just general niggles that put you off exercising.

Pilates is an excellent form of exercise as we age, as it is a low-impact exercise method that offers remarkable benefits for seniors while being gentle on joints and adaptable to different fitness levels/ injuries/ health conditions.

Gentle Yet Effective

Pilates stands out for its focus on controlled, precise movements rather than high-intensity cardio or heavy weightlifting. The exercises typically involve slow, deliberate motions that strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and enhance flexibility without putting excessive stress on aging joints and bones. This makes it particularly suitable for seniors who may be concerned about injury or have existing mobility limitations.

Core Benefits for Aging Bodies

The emphasis on core strength in Pilates directly addresses many age-related concerns. A strong core helps with:

• Balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls

• Better posture, which can help alleviate back pain

• Improved breathing capacity through engagement of deep abdominal muscles

• Enhanced mobility for everyday activities like getting up from chairs or reaching for objects

Mind-Body Connection

One of Pilates' most valuable aspects for seniors is its focus on the mind-body connection. Each movement requires concentration and mindful breathing, which can help maintain cognitive function and reduce stress. This mental engagement, combined with physical activity, creates a holistic approach to wellness that becomes increasingly important as we age.

Adaptability for All Fitness Levels

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of Pilates for seniors is its adaptability. Exercises can be modified to accommodate various physical conditions and limitations. This means participants can start where they are and gradually progress as their strength and confidence improve.

Self confidence

I think the increasing self confidence that practicing Pilates can bring to people is underestimated – the benefits of this are huge. I very often get enquiries from people about my Pilates for beginners courses, who will say they are above a certain age, haven’t done anything like this and aren’t very fit and will they be ok to attend, will they be able to do it?

It’s great to see someone who has lost confidence in their body, and themselves generally, to be making progress and slowly (or even sometimes quickly!) regaining confidence in themselves. A client of mine who thought she wouldn’t be able to do it and was persuaded by her daughter to attend, within 8 weeks had progressed really quickly to doing some more challenging mat work and you could see her confidence had soared!

Social Benefits

Many seniors find that attending Pilates classes provides valuable social interaction. Group classes offer opportunities to meet like-minded individuals while working toward similar health goals. This social component can be just as beneficial for mental health as the physical exercise itself. It is lovely to see class participants getting to know each other before and after classes and building those connections.

Getting Started Safely

For seniors interested in starting Pilates, it's important to begin with proper guidance. Look for certified Pilates instructors who have experience working with older adults and understand age-related conditions.

The beauty of Pilates lies in its ability to strengthen both body and mind while remaining accessible to practitioners of all ages. For seniors seeking a safe, effective way to maintain their health and independence, Pilates offers an ideal solution that can be practiced well into the golden years. There are many people practicing Pilates well into their nineties, and most of them say that Pilates is the thing that has helped them to live well for longer.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional such as your GP before starting any new exercise routine, and listen to your body as you begin this rewarding journey toward better health through Pilates.

Good luck with your Pilates journey, and if you live in Derby, contact me to come and try a class!

Check out this blog post about the benefits of choosing a beginners Pilates class.