At a recent Age With Grace and Strength workshop (same title as my newest bestselling book!), someone asked a really great question:
“Can I even do Yoga or Pilates if my knees or hips hurt?”
Great news—you absolutely can!
In fact, these practices can actually help reduce your pain while improving your muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. Wicked cool!
Pilates That Is Done Lying Down on your couch, bed or floor (Really!)
Many Pilates leg exercises are done lying on your side—so there’s zero pressure on your knees or hips. You can do them while watching your favorite movie!
✨ Check out the short video below for a couple of these easy exercises. It’s part of my 5-Minute Workouts playlist—quick, effective, and easy to fit into your day.
You’ll be surprised how much strength you can build while staying comfy and supported.
Yoga That’s Gentle on Joints but offers Big Rewards
There are several Yoga poses options that build strength without strain:
- Goddess, Warrior I, II & III, and the Moon Salutation all help you strengthen those important leg muscles.
- Sun Salutation is a full-body stretch-and-strengthen flow that builds muscle in both upper and lower body.
And just like with Pilates, there are modifications for all of these exercises so that anyone, with any flexibility issue can do them and receive all the benefits without the pain.
Build Strength Without Stressing Your Joints
Pilates abdominal exercises are done on your back, so you can safely build strong abs to support your spine—without any strain to your knees, hips, or back.
I always include lots of modifications in my classes. So whether you’re tight, have painful joints, or a true beginner, you can join in without worry. I’ll take care of you!
We also do my “Super Squat” which strengthens all the muscles around your knees to keep them stable and strong. It’s a favorite in every class!
Classes That Actually Get What 50+ Bodies Need
Every Yoga and Pilates class I teach is designed for people over 50. That means every session is focused on:
- Building strength (especially where we tend to lose it)
- Improving flexibility
- Boosting balance
- Reducing pain
…and doing it all in a way that feels good.
♀️ Want to give it a try?
Click here to check out my class calendar. You can join me in person at my Otis studio, or hop on Zoom from wherever you are!
P.S. Need the Book?
If you haven’t grabbed a copy of Age With Grace And Strength yet, here’s the link. You can order through Amazon or directly from me.
It also makes a great Mother’s Day gift for mom, grandma, or friends over 50!
Best of Health,
Kathi
