For Seniors
For seniors, Pilates exercises offer a long list of strong points—coming from both the exercise and physical activity in general, as well as the specific principals of the Pilates method itself. The aging process affects our bodies in ways that Pilates can hedge against and even reverse to a certain degree.
One example of how Pilates helps seniors is posture and spine health. Over time, gravity compresses the bones of our spine. Impact from activity and long periods of sitting or standing in life only multiplies gravity’s effects. Pilates works to lengthen all the connections into the spine.
There are multiple other benefits, including:
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Maintaining muscle mass when aging tends to decrease it
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Increasing strength when it would otherwise decline
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Providing new flexibility for joints as they tend to stiffen
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Keeping muscles and movements flexible and fluid
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Improving balance to help avoid injury from falls
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Improving coordination to help prevent dangerous accidents
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Renewing of energy and vigor
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Improved appetite and sleep patterns