Pilates

I know this is an old thread, but I'd like to say give it a go, definitely. Until recently I went regularly and only stopped because DD2 often needed help on that day and, as we pay in advance, I was missing too many classes. I am hoping to re-start soon though as I don't do any other exercise. It's great for tone, flexibility and muscle strength. Our teacher is a qualified physio and checks that we're doing the exercises correctly. Go for a small class because you get more individual attention.

I'm 61 and have done Pilates for about 10 years. I'm not as fit as others in the class, but I dread to think what I'd be like WITHOUT Pilates! When I come home from my class I feel energised and usually do some hoovering, or gardening. If you are just starting, tell your teacher what your problems are, they will advise how to do the exercises.

I love pilates I go twice a week and have been for two years. I feel stronger, taller , fitter and all that. I do have back problems from time to time but I keep going and just scale down on the back exercises. The teacher is lovely and if I bop need to take it easy for a week I tell him. I never used to be able to do press ups or roll ups , but I can now ( I'm 65)

The beauty of Pilates is that anyone can do it as a good teacher will learn about your body and help you to work at the level that's right for you.

Some Pilates teachers offer a private session and that might help you to master the basic techniques and enable him/her to choose exercises designed to support your individual needs.

I have been going to Pilates for about 15 years and it is wonderful for my back and neck problems. The classes locally are rather expensive now that I am retired, so a friend and I meet weekly to follow a DVD that the teacher made for us to practise at home.

At first it might seem that there are lots of things to consider - breathing, nipping and tucking your pelvic floor etc - but it does become easier with practice.

My mother-in-law attended classes until her 90th birthday when she became ill.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.

Thank you for help and advice on here - although the idea of press-ups is a bit laughable in my case! And even doing anything lying on the floor, as it is difficult to get up again because of my problem foot.

But I will now look around locally and see what is there.

Oh yes Mishap I have been doing Pilates for a few years now and I really love it. My Pilates teacher always works at three levels of ability and you choose the level most suitable for you. My class has mixed age groups ranging from 18 through to 80 ! The exercises have helped my co-ordination and balance. I would highly recommend giving it a try. Also excellent for back problems as there is a lot of stretching involved. I always have the best nights sleep after my Pilates class.

If you could find a yoga class aimed at older age group that would also be worth a go. There is also something called "restorative yoga" that might fit the bill. You do everything very slowly, lying down.

I've been going to Pilates for years. There's different types so do take up the offer if taster lessons. Some are mat work, others include reformer beds and other equipment. Some are more active and introduce some cardio work whilst others favour slower movements, but nonetheless work the parts that you never knew you had.

Every class I've been to has been mixed ages and good teachers adapt their classes to your ability.

I wobble if I'm off the ground so the teacher gives me a different exercise that does the same stretch but is safer for me.

It's helped me with my IBS, my spinal problems, I've found abs I didn't know I had, my thighs no longer rub together and I've begun to do some cardio which I love. I'm certainly more flexible than I was and its helped with strengthening my leg which I damaged last September.

As you can probably tell, I'm a real convert to this form of exercise and can't recommend it enough.

I am 78years old,and started Pilates this year, in a class started by my physio, I too have back problems, but it seems to be helping,

I've been going to a Pilates class for six years (with a short 'break' when I broke my wrist). I go to a class at an over 50s centre (I'm 68) and the teacher is also a sports physio. I did get a dvd once but the exercises were done so fast that I didn't feel it would be safe to do on my own.

I think it really helps to look for a class aimed at our age group, especially if not super fit. Many should let you try a class for free to see if it suits you. Our teacher spends time each class on balance exercises and, although I'm still wobbly and need the security of a wall beside me, feel the exercises have helped a lot and hopefully will lessen the chances of another fall/broken bone (I have osteoporosis). Pilates can be hard work (blooming plank and press-ups!) but we all seem to come out after the class feeling taller (and a bit smug). Do give it a go and see if you like it.

I've been to various Pilates classes over the years. Some were excellent and others less so. A good trainer will ask about your health and fitness and show different levels to try throughout the class. If this doesn't happen then beware.

Yes if you have a teacher like mine who understands all our problems (she is also a physio) and if necessary alters the excercises to suit all our ailments. I too have balance problems with one leg and if necessary just hang onto the wall ! There are different types of pilates (mat work and /or with equipment) so make sure you talk to the teacher before hand and see what is involved and whether it is suitable for you.
I have had no back problems since doing pilates and generally feel much stronger and more supple.

Oh, definitely give it a go. The pilates class I went to was mostly lying on the floor. Unfortunately I had to stop going due to a ligament problem. The teacher will make allowances for anything you cant manage.