Are Pilates Workouts Good for Seniors?

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Is Pilates a Good Form of Exercise for Older Adults in Rosville, CA

Older adults need regular physical activity to stay in good health. Pilates classes are ideal for seniors, as the activity provides low-impact exercise that combines controlled breathing with high-quality muscle movements. The movements are also adaptable to suit the abilities of seniors. Pilates offers the following benefits.

Enhances Bone Density

Fitness experts often recommend strength training and weightlifting exercises to build stronger bones. However, Pilates offers a different approach to increasing bone density. The movements involve natural body resistance and weight-bearing positions instead of using traditional weights. 

If you’re creating an exercise plan for your loved one, make sure to consider your schedule if he or she will need help exercising safely. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Roseville respite care experts from Home Care Assistance are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Increases Flexibility

Flexibility is one of the major benefits of Pilates. The movements performed during each session work the muscles across the body, including the neck, chest, back, abdomen, hamstrings, and feet. When older adults have greater flexibility, they’re less prone to injury.

Builds Strength

By building strength and endurance, seniors are better able to live healthy, productive lives. Sessions typically vary in intensity and depend on the ability of the individual. However, the required movements and positions are designed to push the limit to gain strength. Strenuous routines also offer cardiovascular benefits, as heart rates may rise to 130 beats per minute. 

Even if seniors have mobility issues or health challenges, they can still get the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of a trained professional caregiver. Roseville in-home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Enhances Balance and Stability

The movements performed during Pilates generally concentrate on the torso or core of the body. Eventually, the limbs are included in the workout routine. The positions are designed to teach students how to control and stabilize their range of motion, which naturally increases balance, coordination, and stability, thus reducing the risk of falls. The movements also help stroke survivors regain their balance and control.

Provides Musculoskeletal Benefits

Older adults with arthritis are able to replicate the positions in Pilates, as the movements don’t stress weight-bearing joints. While strengthening the abdominal core, the back muscles are also stretched, which strengthens the back. Thus, the routine commonly alleviates lower back pain. By strengthening the core muscles, older adults also develop better posture, which reduces back stress. However, the exercises aren’t recommended for seniors diagnosed with spinal stenosis or osteoporosis without careful guidance from a skilled instructor. Seniors living with multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s have also experienced benefits from performing Pilates. The stretching exercises alleviate the stiffness and rigidity that commonly accompany these conditions.

Elevates Mood Naturally

Many seniors experience anxiety and depression. By engaging in physical exercise, the body releases endorphins that relieve pain while inhibiting negative thought processes. As seniors become more physically fit, they’re also likely to have heightened self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment.

Offers a Convenient Way to Remain Healthy

Pilates doesn’t require expensive equipment. Most movements are performed using a simple floor mat or while sitting in a chair. Some classes may use a ball or stretch bands, but these are available commercially for personal use. Once seniors become accustomed to the movements and positions, they can easily perform Pilates at home.

If your loved one has health conditions or mobility limitations that make exercising alone a challenge, help is available. Roseville senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If your loved one needs professional home care, Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call one of our Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.

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