Pilates for Seniors: 5 Reasons Why Pilates is Great for Seniors

It's no secret that as we age, our bodies change. From sagging skin to lower energy levels, the signs of getting older are all around us.

But don't let these changes get you down. With some new habits and a few adjustments to your routine, you'll be on your way to aging beautifully. One great option is Pilates for seniors.

Seniors tend to get less exercise than younger adults, and it can be hard to see the results of your efforts. But high-intensity workouts could cause injury, so low-intensity workouts like Pilates are a better bet for older adults.

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5 Reasons Why Pilates is Great for Seniors

So, why should all seniors practice Pilates? Here are the top 5 reasons:

Low-Intensity Workout Suitable for Senior's Specific Fitness Needs

Compared to other workouts, Pilates is a low-intensity exercise. This makes it the perfect choice for seniors who are looking for an effective workout but have trouble keeping up with high-intensity training.

Most of the Pilates exercises are gentle on the joints, emphasize correct posture, and are considered to be low impact. As a result, this type of workout will help you build lean muscle, improve joint mobility, and increase flexibility.

Because Pilates is 50% focused on breathing, it offers a meditative side benefit. It offers an opportunity to relax the mind while also exercising the body.

Improves Core Strength and Stability

The core is the center of stability and strength in your body. Unlike other muscles, it's targeted in most Pilates exercises and provides movement for all parts of the body.

Without a strong core, you're more prone to injury. One study found that low-back pain can directly relate to weakness in the muscles around your spine.

Seniors are highly susceptible to low-back pain. It's also common for older adults to have trouble balancing, which can lead to falls and other injuries if not corrected.

Every Pilates exercise targets the body in a balanced way, making it easier to maintain your balance while performing day-to-day activities.

Decreases the Risk of Back & Neck Pain

Back pain is one of the most common ailments for seniors. It's defined as pain in the lower, middle, or upper back. Neck pain is also very common for this age group.

If you're suffering from either of these conditions, a Pilates class may be able to improve your symptoms. Multiple sessions of Pilates exercise therapy can help you experience significant reductions in pain intensity, as well as improvements in physical function and disability.

The exercises also help increase flexibility and strength throughout your body. This helps improve your posture, which can help alleviate some of the pain caused by poor habits.

Improves Joint Mobility & Flexibility

Pilates is a lot like yoga in that it focuses on flexibility and mobility. This type of exercise improves the range of motion around your joints. As you get older, your joints stop functioning as well as they once did.

Some of the most common injuries that occur in older adults are caused by a lack of flexibility and poor mobility. These include rotator cuff tears, hip fractures, and other accidents that can cause serious disability if not treated properly.

Pilates targets all areas of your body so you can get back to doing what you love.

Prevents Physical Decline

As you age, it's important to keep your muscles strong and conditioned. This helps prevent falls and injuries that may cause physical decline. Because of the low-impact nature of Pilates, this type of workout is perfect for improving muscular strength while reducing the risk of injury.

Your bones also weaken as you get older. They become more brittle, making them more prone to fractures. Studies have found that the strength training associated with Pilates can help women retain their bone density well into old age.

Moreover, Pilates can help you prevent a variety of serious injuries as you age. For example, it helps improve your balance and coordination. Both of these are important factors to consider as you get older because they can affect how well you perform daily activities.

Conclusion

If you're a senior looking for a way to condition your body and prevent physical decline, then Pilates may be the workout for you.

Seniors see impressive results with this type of exercise because it's low impact and gentle on the joints, while also increasing strength and flexibility.

Moreover, Pilates requires only a few equipments and works the entire body, making it a comprehensive workout that can give you great results fast.