Feeling stiff? Along with strengthening muscles that we need as we age, Pilates can improve flexibility and joint mobility, making daily movements easier and reducing the risk of injuries.
Fair warning, today’s post is a rant. I dislike false advertisement intensely.
Last week I saw an advertisement on Facebook claiming that Pilates is not suitable for those over 50 who need to work on flexibility, balance, etc. and that Tai Chi (which the advertiser teaches) is the best exercise type for this age group.
Naturally, I was a little miffed. Not because she said Tai Chi is good, because it is, but she is wrong to say that Pilates is not beneficial for those over 50. Many studies have demonstrated that Pilates is very beneficial for those over 50. I have also seen with my very own eyes how much stronger and more flexible my students have become, as well as other notable improvements in breathing, posture, and balance. Many of these students have continued their practice with me for years, which is a testament to the positive changes they’ve experienced in their own bodies – even those that only come to one class per week!
I believe that with each different type of exercise – Pilates, Tai Chi, Yoga, Dance, etc., what should be considered is the age of participants. At different ages, we need different workouts. When we are in our thirties, our workout should look MUCH different than it does in our 70’s. I also know that everyBODY is unique, and it’s essential to teach modifications for any exercise or asana to accommodate each person’s needs.
OK, I’m done with the rant, so I’ll explain a little bit about the 2 Pilates exercises that I’ve included for you today.
We are doing the Pilates 100’s – I demonstrate a few different modifications and what I like to call the simple crunch which may be very different from any crunch that you may remember from your twenties. OK, so maybe I wasn’t completely done with my rant…
Both of these exercises build your abdominal muscles, thereby strengthening and stabilizing your spine.
This becomes essential after age 50. With a strong and elongated spine, we walk better, breathe better, sit taller, and our daily tasks become easier. No more straining our back while emptying the dishwasher!
As always, if you have any questions, or need a different modification, please let me know!
HERE is a link to my calendar if you’d like to join my classes!
Best of Health,
Kathi
