Senior Participation in Pilates – Good or Bad?

Because Pilates is generally low impact, it is a perfect choice of exercise for seniors. The good news is that seniors with some infirmities such as arthritis or a bad hip or any other problem can modify the exercises to accommodate their special needs! The benefits are great. Seniors can gain flexibility, balance, strength, endurance, muscle tone and a general sense of well being. The perfect model was Joseph Pilates who founded the exercise programs and followed it well into his 80′s!

While seniors can definitely learn Pilates through a DVD, the internet or even books, the best way is via classroom instruction or rather fitness studio instruction. Not only is it an opportune time to be with other like-minded people, but learning in a group is a lot more fun and engaging. You get instant feedback from the instructor on your form and how you breathe. Because Pilates is becoming more mainstream, chances are you will find a few classes at your local YMCA or senior recreation center. Some assisted living facilities offer classes as do local fitness clubs and specialized studios.

If there are no specialized senior Pilates classes available to you nearby, a beginners class should still suit well. The key thing is having an instructor that will help you along the way with some personal attention so that you get the basic exercises down. If you can fit it into your budget, a few private Pilates lessons just might be the ticket you need to feel more comfortable before joining a beginning mainstream class. One on one instruction can provide a solid foundation for you. Plus, with individual instruction, the teacher can better tailor your workouts to your specific fitness needs and goals.

Mat or Apparatus Classes

Because Pilates has both mat exercises as well as equipment exercises, which one is best for seniors? The answer is that the mat is a safe choice and a beginning class using the Reformer machine is also beneficial. With the mat Pilates class, most exercises are done on floor mats with no special equipment or accessories. However, there are some small Pilates accessories such as an exercise band or magic circle that may be incorporated into mat exercise programs.

The Pilates Reformer machine is a large piece of equipment that incorporates a motley crew of springs set at varying tension strengths. The Reformer machine uses your own body weight to provide the resistance for the workout. Many seniors have found that this machine is the easiest of all the Pilates equipment. Definitely, it adds an intensity that burns more calories!

Senior Check-up

Before, starting any exercise program, check with your doctor! Pilates does have its own unique set of exercises and principles. However, many of the Pilates moves can be altered to accommodate any health issues, physical limitations and more. Talk to your Pilates instructor before starting a class so they are aware of this and can suggest alterations. Overall, Pilates can be quite beneficial and seniors will discover that they have better balance, more flexibility and strength than before after practicing this exercise program, even in just a few sessions!