PILATES IMPROVES BALANCE & DECREASES BACK PAIN in the AGING POPULATION

A recent Spanish study has proven what all the Pilates instructors know about this amazing form of exercise: that adding regular Pilates to your life enhances balance and reduces back pain, particularly in the older population. 

This study was conducted on 100 women aged 65 and older, who were all offered physiotherapy twice a week. Half of these participants also received one hour Pilates classes twice a week. At the conclusion of six weeks, the women who participated in the Pilates classes tested positive to a reduced fear of falling, whilst the other half who were not offered the twice weekly Pilates classes did not. In addition, the women who did Pilates reported a decrease in their back pain and improvements in their balance and stability. The researchers obtained this data by asking the participants to stand on a chair, walk three metres, turn around and finally sit down. The women were also asked to fill out a questionnaire rating the level of back pain they were currently experiencing, which was then compared to their responses of the same questionnaire completed prior to the six weeks. 

At the conclusion of the study the lead author and researcher of this study stated that; “Pilates' exercises focus not only on physical but also on psychological development, and mind-body interaction is the main principal of the method". 

This study will hopefully reveal to the public that Pilates is not a 'young person's' form of exercise. In fact, it could be said that Pilates is even more important for the aging population, as the risk of lower back pain, as well as the decline of balance, increases with age. Unfortunately, a similar study has not yet been conducted with a focus group of aging males, however the women's results do speak very highly of the benefits of Pilates. 

If six weeks of twice weekly Pilates sessions can improve balance and decrease back pain, imagine what a year or years of these workouts can do for the body! Pilates uses low impact controlled exercises to enhance core strength, posture and balance, as well as teaching greater awareness of the body and educating correct muscle firing and movement. Improved core strength and posture results in decreased pressure and pain on the joints of the body. Pilates' exercises focus on strengthening the 'core' muscles, particularly the deep abdominals, the buttocks, the inner thighs and the lower and mid back muscles. In addition to these physical benefits that Pilates provides, this form of exercise also offers psychological benefits including a reduction of stress and depression and a calming sense on the body and mind. 

Suffering from aches and pain that you never had years ago? Looking to include Pilates into your exercise regime but do not want to go into a big group environment? Premium Pilates Studio offers a maximum of four clients to one instructor for their Reformer classes. We focus on personalised and tailored programs for each individual client, based on their physical needs. Come try a class with us by calling 0402 680 724, emailing inquiries@premiumpilatesstudio.com or visiting us online at premiumpilatesstudio.com. 

Content adapted from and images from: http://www.newdelhitimes.com/link-between-pilates-and-better-balance-in-older women123/, http://www.christiantoday.com/article/pilates.improves.balance.and.eases.back.pain.in.older.women.study.suggests/63212.htm, http://www.pogophysio.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Dollarphotoclub_64234448.jpg.