Pilates for over 50's

For many, being 50 or over, might feel like the time for trying something more effective and appropriate as far as exercise is concerned. It is a great time to discover a new form of exercise or re acquaint yourself with regular exercise again. 

The benefits of Pilates classes for older people are wide ranging, making them a great way to exercise in your older years.

Tackle the Menopause

At the lower end of the over 50's age range, going through menopause at whatever stage, means a great many hormonal changes may be taking place. This can have an impact on muscles, joints and flexibility. 

The decrease in oestrogen as well as calcium depletion from the bones means a loss in the protective effects that oestrogen provides. 

Pilates classes during menopause help keep the bones and joints strong. Using Pilates weight baring exercise, free weights or Pilates toning balls are an effective and fun way to keep strong in the shoulder joint and muscles. 

The breathing that accompanies Pilates exercises can have a calming positive effect as well as an improvement in circulation. 

Stay Mobile, Strong and Flexible

Mobility, Strength and Flexibilty - we need it all! Pilates classes for the older people should work on the mobility and strength of the joints, particularly the pelvis and hip joint which is really important in the more older people. 

Working on the hip joints now could help stave off the susceptibility of hip problems later in life. 

With the more senior client, it's never too late for Pilates classes to make a difference, especially if you've had a hip replacement. 

The more you exercise, gently and appropriately, the better. That goes for knees too! 

The ankle joint is one of the joints that is very susceptible to stiffness as we age so it's worth keeping an eye on it. Using a stretch band to rotate and move the ankle joint in different directions can keep this joint flexible and help the ligaments in the feet. You can also stretch the calves and the achilles tendon. 

Stand taller and look better with Improved Posture

Exercises that improve the vertical position of the spine, what we term 'extension' exercises are really important to work on.

As we age our bodies are slowly giving into the forces of gravity. Strengthening the postural muscles of the mid and upper back with Pilates will help you stand taller. 

Don't forget, if your posture looks good, you look and feel much younger! As, Joseph Pilates himself, said if at 50 your spine is stiff and inflexible you may as well be 100!

Feel good with Core Stability

Core stability strength exercises and lots of gentle sit ups (if appropriate), in conjunction with keeping the pelvic floor strong, have a great effect on the stability of the spine, influencing the posture and improving the function of our day to day activities. 

Try standing and lifting the pelvic floor thinking about starting to lift from the soles of the feet rather than simply starting with the pelvic floor. Doing it this way can involve so much more and will help engage your abdominals as well. 

Feeling like you haven't lost your tummy muscles entirely can make you feel good about yourself! 

As you continue to get stronger, having a go at the more challenging aspects of Pilates will give you a sense of achievement and continue to improve your overall strength and well being.

It's not just for women! Pilates for Men of any age.

You might be forgiven for thinking over 50s pilates classes are just for the ladies, but not so. 

Men attending Pilates sessions can gain huge benefits in flexibility, often working around, or helping improve the feel of an old injury or problem. This in turn can help improve enjoyment and performance in other activities you might enjoy during retirement such as walking, golf, tennis, sailing or cricket. 

Finding the right Pilates Class for you

Making sure you choose the right Pilates class for you is something to think about.

Consider what your current level of health and fitness is like, your age, injuries or surgeries and find a teacher who will be supportive. 

The most important thing for over 50's is to keep on moving!

Over 50s Pilates classes will not only keep you active and flexible you'll gain new awareness of yourself which can contribute to a great change in the way you feel.