Arthritis Sufferers Can Do Pilates with Success
Joseph Pilates created his fitness program as a why to help rehabilitate soldiers who were injured in World War I. It was such a success that it was adopted by many athletes including dancers who saw the potential of Pilates exercise to create a balanced, poised and sleek body. Pilates is enjoying a resurgence in popularity particularly if you have some type of physical infirmity such as arthritis.
Remember, Pilates provides a well-rounded exercise program that is not only low impact but it will shape your body too. You learn better posture and muscle tone improves. You learn how to align your spine which creates the illusion of longer length and helps build better posture too. This low impact program keeps arthritis sufferers from stiffness and pain. Exercise doesn’t have to hurt anymore!
People with arthritis have to deal with swelling of the joints in addition to aches and pain. It stands to reason that some are afraid of exercising because no one wants to invite pain if they do not have to do so. With Pilates, because it is low impact, you will be able to reduce stiffness and joint pain while at the same time increases your muscle strength, flexibility and stamina. Heart health improves and you might even lose weight. The best part of taking Pilates when you have arthritis is you will feel better all over. It typically takes a few months before you know all the exercises and learn the best combinations of exercises to keep the pain in check.
Overall, Pilates can help arthritis sufferers like you by reducing the stiffness and pain in the joints. By taking Pilates you can control your weight as well as feel better about yourself. Of course, the controlled movements you practice do wonders for the pain by boosting flexibility, posture and more.
The flexibility issue is important with arthritis sufferers. With Pilates, the range of motion increases body flexibility and relieves stiffness. Your muscles will become stronger which means you have more support for your arthritic joints. In order to best lose weight while having arthritis, combining Pilates with an aerobic type of class can help burn off the most calories. Maintaining an even weight can definitely help decrease the stress on your joints.
Of course, it goes without saying that you should consult with your doctor, especially if you have arthritis, before starting Pilates. Some exercises can be intense and you should be prepared for the initial stress of starting a new exercise routine with your arthritic joints. You may want to talk with your Pilates instructor for possible modifications to some of the more difficult Pilates moves to accommodate your arthritis. Many of the exercises are adaptable for any infirmities (like arthritis) you may have.
Many athletes can attest to how well Pilates creates and maintains conditioning of the body. You can count on this fitness program to lower joint pain, ease other aches and provide less stress to your body. Pilates is definitely a good choice of exercise for arthritis sufferers.
