Will Pilates help with Osteoporosis?

Often a diagnosis of Osteoporosis is coupled with some instability, weakness and possible pain, which is why Pilates is the absolute BEST place to start!

Step 1 - A Pilates programme will wake up the supportive muscles of the body. These are usually smaller and very often less active, but they are absolutely necessary for providing a "corset" for the body and a support structure for the skeleton.  Starting here will help you to move in a more balanced way that will improve posture and reduce pain, whilst also safely building muscle and in turn beginning to process of improving bone density

Step 2 - When pain has been reduced and stability restored you can start incorporating body weight strengthening exercises as well as introducing hand weights to the exercises.  Adding load and resistance will help to build the muscle mass that will in turn help you to build new bone.  Doing this with a "Pilates-focus" on core, breathing, stability, alignment & mobility will make the process of starting resistance training infinitely safer and therefore more likely to be effective without causing further set backs.

Other ways Pilates will help

• Pilates emphasises proper alignment and posture, which can help alleviate stress on the spine and reduce the risk of vertebral fractures. Improved posture also enhances balance and reduces the likelihood of falls
• Pilates incorporates movements that promote flexibility and range of motion in the joints. This can help counteract the stiffness and reduced mobility often associated with osteoporosis, improving overall functional ability and reducing the risk of injury.
• Pilates is generally considered a low-impact form of exercise, which means it is gentle on the joints and bones. This makes it suitable for individuals with osteoporosis, as it reduces the risk of injury and stress on the bones and joints, while still providing a challenging workout.

If you have been diagnosed with Osteoporosis (or Osteopenia, the earlier form of Osteoporosis), please don't panic - but DO TAKE ACTION. While osteoporosis may not be curable, early detection, appropriate treatment, and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with the condition.

1 - Increasing muscle mass and therefore improving bone density

2 - Increasing Protein, Vitamin C, Calcium, sunlight & healthy fats

3 - Reducing Alcohol, Caffeine & Salt

As always , please bear in mind the long term repercussions of ignoring this diagnosis

• Risk of fractures meaning changes to lifestyle, but also potential time in hospital which is especially dangerous for older adults and can lead to further medical complications.
• Spinal compression - loss of height and chronic back and hip pain
• Reduced balance, mobility & independence - lack of strength coupled with pain makes independent living unlikely in old age
• PAIN meaning low energy & low mood!

So when you are ready to begin a programme to manage this condition and improve symptoms, start with the MindBody Academy where not only do you have full access to a calendar of Pilates and strength workouts, but you can start at any level with programmes tailored to your exact starting point.