While you and your loved ones would like to spend your golden years relaxing and winding down, it is important to engage in regular exercises which are essential to your physical and mental wellbeing. Regardless of age, physical activities are beneficial to your overall health, but it is even more critical for you and your loved ones to strive for an active lifestyle to improve your quality of life in your senior years.
Although aging is accompanied by physical limitations and other health problems, you and your loved ones can engage in slower-paced physical activities such as Pilates, which happens to be one of the best workouts for seniors. Many seniors have raved about the benefits of Pilates and reported that engaging in Pilates over time helps to increase energy levels, increase flexibility, reduce joint aches, and more. At Seaton Hagerstown, we offer an array of exciting physical senior living programs that the retirement community can enjoy, including Pilates. Read on as we share the immense benefits that Pilates has to offer to you and your loved ones!
Improves Posture
As you and your loved ones age, you may find that your posture worsens due to a loss of bone density or persistent bad habits. In turn, these may compress your joints and even organs, as well as lead to a tightening of muscles which often results in aches and soreness. By doing Pilates regularly, you will find that your posture gradually improves with time as Pilates focuses on aligning your body which also creates mobility in your joints. Pilates corrects your posture by stretching the relevant areas, accompanied by a change in habits such as sitting in an upright position rather than slouching.
Improves Strength, Flexibility, and Mobility
Mobility comprises strength and flexibility, which allows for a full range of motion. Often, older adults may experience reduced mobility due to reduced strength from stiff muscles, as well as reduced flexibility due to the weaker, aging body.
Studies have shown that Pilates can help you build strength and train your flexibility, improving your range of motion. This is because Pilates exercises are about mindful controlled movements, stretches, and more to strengthen one’s body. In turn, the workout allows for easier movements in everyday life despite being in the senior years.
Reduces Joint and Back Aches
Engaging in Pilates also strengthens your core which comprises the back, hip, inner thighs, and pelvic floor. When you and your loved ones have a strong core, it will better support the overall body, especially the back. Those experiencing chronic lower back pain will also see improvements in that area in time to come.
Helps You Destress and Improve Mood
Again, Pilates is a peaceful, calming, and mindful practice that trains on breathing techniques as well as movements. Aside from the physical benefits that Pilates has to offer, the mental and emotional benefits are also worth considering the workout for.
By focusing inward and working on your breathing techniques in serenity, you and your loved ones can destress and calm the nervous system. Studies have also shown that Pilates can decrease anxiety levels and enhance mood. By relaxing and focusing on oneself with no external distractions, it is no wonder that many older adults end the Pilates session with all smiles at our Dimensions Health & Wellness Program!
