“You are only as young as your spine is flexible“
J.H Pilates Almost a century ago Joseph Humbertus Pilates created the Pilates method, developing a series of exercises designed to increase muscle tone and flexibility, working on the core muscles and strengthening the muscles that support the spine. I have been working with these exercises for many years and thanks to this method I have been able to teach different kinds of people. Thanks to my curiosity for all sports activities, I decided to attend my first Pilates class on a trip to the USA in 2000 and I soon realised the great benefits of this method.
Anyone can do Pilates, provided that we specifically adapt the method to each person’s physical condition, age, problems or illnesses, i.e. we apply the method according to each person’s specific needs. In this way, with Pilates it is possible to give each student what best suits their profile. The great variety of different students includes those who are more senior. It is an exceptional method for them, since they can recover abilities and perform movements that they had lost long ago with the aid of the equipment (Reformer, Tower, Chair, Cadillac and Barrel). For older people, Pilates “changes their lives” because it makes them feel more agile, independent and sure of themselves.
There are two types of Pilates workout: Mat and Equipment. The latter is highly advisable for our older students, as the equipment uses the resistance created by springs to work the muscles. Sometimes the spring helps a weak muscle to complete its action and sometimes it offers resistance to the muscle or muscle group you are working on. Both types of workout are highly beneficial for preventing and treating conditions that are typical of this age group, such as osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also, the spine loses flexibility over time and its natural curves tend to become deformed, causing lordosis, kyphosis, scoliosis and postural problems, so many healthcare professionals recommend this method to complement the treatment or prevention of certain diseases.
The principles of the Pilates method, concentration, flow, control, precision and breathing, are very much present in each session, and particular attention is paid to breathing. Breathing correctly will help us increase the mobility, capacity and expansion of our ribcage and lungs. Not only does it aid contraction of the deep abdominal muscles, which are so necessary for stabilising the spinal column, it also helps improve the work of our primary breathing muscle: the diaphragm. Breathing properly will ensure that we feel calm and relaxed, giving us a true sense of well-being. A great deal of concentration is required to perform the exercises correctly, which helps older people to stay active in both mind and body. Many people in this age group are achieving a better quality of life each day thanks to Pilates.
Mariola Pelegrín-Pilates Instructor at Physio Pilates Mariola Pelegrín
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