Ageing Well with Pilates

Ageing well with Pilates. As an older Australian woman (67), I am aware of the need to keep healthy and fit to prevent falls and fractures as I age, particularly as I know that my bone density and muscle strength is not what it used to be.  I have always enjoyed walking regularly, and I participate in a ladies badminton group that meets once a week at my local community hall. I have not really participated in any high energy or high impact sports as I generally prefer my exercise to be slower and more peaceful.  I suffer from mild arthritis in my wrists and fingers due to my time working as a secretary and bookkeeper, and too much time spent pulling out weeds in my garden.  This prevents me from doing anything that may strain or aggravate these areas. Recently, one of the girls at my badminton group told me that she had participated in a Pilates class designed to assist elderly people suffering impaired or limited mobility.  She assured me that I would be able to participate despite my wrist condition, so I attended with her the following week. I found the instructor to be quite friendly and she was willing to help me modify some of the poses to suit my ability. Although I have only been attending for three sessions, I feel that I have gained some strength in my arms and shoulders, and I have also noticed that I feel more stable and sure on my feet. I enjoy the exercises and the way that the instructor helps me to adapt them to suit my level of strength and flexibility.  I think that my badminton game has improved a little too and I don’t seem to feel as sore after games, particularly in my shoulders and upper back. I would definitely recommend Pilates to elderly people looking to increase their strength and mobility.  Although I am quite fit and healthy, I can see that it will help me maintain my strength well into my old age, and hopefully prevent me from suffering falls or fractures.  As I continue I think I will become stronger and more flexible, and I will be able to do the exercises without modifying them too much.  I am hoping that the relief in my wrists will also continue and I certainly think it’s good to keep using them because as they say, “use it or lose it”. I intend to keep going to these classes as I enjoy the physical activity, and the opportunity to meet others interested in maintaining their health as they age. Do you enjoy reading our blog? Click here to subscribe to our newsletter to get all the latest Pilates articles, news on courses and latest jobs.