Build a Stronger, More Flexible You with Pilates
Join Our Class for Ages 50+ – Now at a New Time!
In case you haven’t heard, our Pilates class is at a brand new time – 9:30 am on Wednesday! This change makes it easier for more people to discover the incredible benefits of Pilates with our fabulous instructor, Liz.
As we age, maintaining strength and flexibility become very important for preserving our independence and enjoying the activities we love. That’s why at Restoring Bodies we’re dedicated to offering classes that help you build strength and improve flexibility as you gracefully embrace this stage of life.
And Pilates is one of the best ways to do that!
The Role of Strength and Flexibility in Fall Prevention
One of the key reasons to focus on strength and flexibility is to prevent falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 1 in 4 older adults experience a fall each year, making falls the leading cause of injury for adults aged 65 and older.[1]
The good news? Many falls are preventable! The CDC recommends several strategies to help reduce the risk of falls, including consulting with your doctor and removing trip hazards from your home.[2]
They also emphasize the importance of engaging in strength-building exercises [2]---that’s where Pilates comes in.
The Benefits of Pilates
Research shows Pilates can greatly improve strength, flexibility, and balance—key factors in preventing falls. One study highlighted Pilates improves core strength and helps alleviate pain, particularly for those with low back issues.[3]
Another study found that practicing Pilates regularly can help combat our natural decline in flexibility and muscle strength as we age. This means better overall functional capacity, greater independence, and an improved quality of life.[4]
Since Pilates also focuses on connecting the body and mind, it helps you build stability, strength, and controlled movements. Not only does this reduce the risk of falling, but it also boosts emotional well-being.[4]
What to Expect in Our Pilates Class
Don’t worry—we won’t ask you to twist into a pretzel or hold a plank pose for what seems like an eternity (let's leave that to the younger crowd)! Instead, in our classes, you’ll find a warm and supportive atmosphere where we encourage you to listen to your body.
Pilates is all about gradual progress. You’ll build strength and flexibility over time. We offer modifications for all exercises so that you can work at your own pace without feeling pressured to be perfect. Safety is our priority, so we always encourage you to pay attention to your body’s needs.
Bring a mat, a water bottle, and be sure to wear breathable clothing. Most importantly, come with a positive attitude! We celebrate every achievement, big or small, and cheer each other on.
Conclusion
Pilates is so much more than just an exercise routine; it’s a pathway to greater strength, flexibility, and balance—all essential for maintaining your independence and enjoying daily activities as you gracefully age.
If you haven’t joined one of our Pilates classes at Restoring Bodies yet, we invite you to sign up today and experience the transformative power of Pilates for yourself.
Classes are on Wednesday at 9:30 am.
You can register here: https://momence.com/u/restoring-bodies-fitness-&-nutrition-services-htyzkc
We can’t wait to see you there!
References:
- “Older Adult Falls Data." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/index.html.
- “Falls Prevention." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/falls/prevention/index.html.
- "The Effects of a Pilates Training Program on Arm–Trunk Posture and Movement." ScienceDirect. Accessed October 29, 2024.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0268003309002411.
- "Benefits of Pilates in the Elderly Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." PMC. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8947639/#:~:text=It%20uses%20exercises%20that%20encompass,life%20%5B15%2C16%5D.
Additional Sources Consulted:
- "Comparison of the Effect of Selected Pilates Exercises, Traband Training and Weight Training on Strength and Flexibility in Elderly Women." Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://jspac.etb.iau.ir/Article/37983.
- "Effect of Pilates Training on Respiration, Joint Mobility, and Muscle Strength in Healthy Middle-Aged Women with Sedentary Occupations." ResearchGate. Accessed October 29, 2024. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362922634_Effect_of_Pilates_training_on_respiration_joints_mobility_and_muscle_strength_in_healthy_middle-aged_women_with_sedentary_occupations.