Pilates power: The benefits of therapeutic exercise on aging bodies

Pilates is a type of therapeutic exercise that is not only suitable for young people, but also for seniors. The benefits of Pilates include greater flexibility, more endurance, better posture and improved mental health.

It is low-impact and can help improve flexibility, balance, coordination and strength. Pilates has been found to be beneficial for improving overall physical health and can help reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Pilates can be done in private instruction or in a small-group setting with the guidance of an instructor to ensure proper form and technique.  If you have never tried Pilates, it is best to start with an instructor in sessions with two or fewer people, at least until you understand the principles to get the most benefit from this exercise approach.

Pilates can provide a way to strengthen your body, because as we age, our muscles tend to weaken, which can make us more prone to injury and make everyday tasks such as walking, standing and lifting objects more difficult. Some people even have a hard time with simple tasks like getting up off the couch.

Many people use weights to gain strength as well. If you would prefer not to lift weights to gain strength, the core fundamentals of Pilates are focused on muscle control while moving your spine or limbs, as opposed to lifting weights or pushing against resistance. Guidance from a comprehensively trained instructor can help decide what is most appropriate to keep you active and in good health.

Chronic pain is a common issue among older adults and can be caused by a variety of factors, including arthritis, back problems and nerve damage. Regular Pilates exercise can help prevent, manage and/or control chronic pain by strengthening the muscles, improving joint flexibility and reducing inflammation throughout the body.

Therapeutic benefits

It’s important to remember that exercise should be done in moderation and under the guidance of a well-trained expert. If you have an existing health condition, such as heart disease or diabetes, it’s essential to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Therapeutic exercise and Pilates are essential tools for maintaining muscle strength and preventing pain as we age. By engaging in regular exercise, we can improve our physical function, reduce our risk of injury and enjoy a higher quality of life. Whether you prefer strength training or stretching, there’s an exercise program out there that can meet your needs and goals. With the help of a well-qualified professional, you can develop a safe and effective exercise plan that’s right for you.

By doing Pilates regularly, active older adults can enjoy many of the benefits associated with regular exercise: improved cardiovascular health, better circulation and improved posture. Additionally, Pilates can help prevent falls by improving balance and coordination.

Here are five reasons why Pilates is an ideal exercise as we age: (1) It helps reduce pain and improve quality of life; (2) it improves muscle tone and strength, especially in older adults who are experiencing muscle weakness due to age or chronic conditions like arthritis; (3) Pilates exercises help prevent falls among seniors by improving balance and functional movement patterns, such as walking, running, climbing stairs, etc., that may be lost due to frailty or injury; (4) the resistance training involved with Pilates can boost bone density as well as increase flexibility in joints that have become less mobile with age (for example, knees); and (5) Pilates has been shown to be effective in strengthening the respiratory muscles and enhancing breathing. 

Kim Gladfelter is owner, physical therapist and Pilates instructor at PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness, 1000 Fremont Ave., Suite 108, Los Altos. For more information, call (650) 947-8500 or visit physiofitpt.com.