Age is Just a Number: Pilates in the Golden Years

If you’ve ever wondered whether pilates is suitable for you as you enter your golden years, let me assure you: age is just a number, and pilates can be the key to unlocking a whole new chapter of vibrant living.

The concept of “age is just a number” became evident through personal experience and observations. Before the pandemic, I personally taught pilates classes for two different groups: clients aged 20 to 45 at a local pilates studio and those aged 55 and older at a specialized senior center.

Despite the stark contrast in ages, I noticed an exceptional phenomenon. I would teach a group class for younger clients at the studio and then conduct the exact same challenging class for my older participants. To my amazement, these seniors not only embraced the exercises with enthusiasm but also displayed a level of skill that made pilates exercises seem effortless.

Change is Inevitable

As we age, we can expect some changes in our bodies. Just like with all things in life, change is inevitable, and this applies to our bodies too. We have many seasons in our lives when our bodies undergo changes, and we should embrace these changes rather than fight against them.

However, expecting pain to be a standard part of your daily life as you approach your golden years should not be the case. I want to challenge the misconception that pain is an unavoidable consequence of the aging process.

It is crucial to debunk this myth and shift our focus to a more informed perspective. That’s why I believe that as our bodies change with age, our exercises should adapt as well. By directing your efforts toward adopting appropriate exercise regimes like pilates, which encompass key elements such as mobility, functional movement, weight-bearing exercises, and balance training, you can positively influence your aging journey and alleviate the onset of pain.

Types of Exercises

Targeted mobility enhances joint flexibility and range of motion, ensuring that your body remains agile and adaptable. Incorporating functional movements into your exercise routine will cultivate strength and endurance that directly translates into your daily activities and tasks.

Weight-bearing exercises, on the other hand, aid in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis, a common concern among the older population. Finally, balance exercises not only improve your stability and coordination but also reduce the risk of falls, which significantly contributes to injuries among the elderly.

When I design my pilates classes, they focus on all the above – mobility, functional movement, low-impact weight-bearing exercises, and balance work. I take great care to ensure that my pilates classes are safe and effective while minimizing joint impact.

Be Proactive. I firmly believe that incorporating appropriate pilates exercises into your golden years will enhance your life in the years to come.

By embracing this comprehensive approach to exercise, you can proactively embrace the aging process and gracefully navigate the years, experiencing improved overall well-being and a significant reduction in pain. It is imperative to recognize that age should not limit us to a life full of discomfort but empower us to live vibrantly and resiliently.