subject: Pilates at Any Age [print this page] Pilates at Any Age Pilates at Any Age
Many people think that they cannot fit a regular exercise routine into their lives or that they are too old to start an effective exercise program. A number of exercises routines do not involve shocks and jolts to the joints or bones and are easy enough to be engaged in by a person of any age. Pilates is a perfect example of a low impact workout that can transform your body and keep you flexible and in shape.
Pilates features many exercises that a person of any age can do. The overall fitness level of an individual also matters little to a person trying to accomplish an effective Pilates workout. Some of the motions require a higher fitness level than others, but an outside observer often sees Pilates routines as a cross between physical therapy and physical fitness. One thing that makes Pilates ideal for any age group is the adaptability of the program. If a person cannot do a move for any reason, they can either drop the move from the workout or modify it in a way that does work for them. If a Pilates instructor is available, he or she can help a person find ways to adapt the moves that work for their level of ability and still provide exercise.
Pilates can work for people of any fitness condition or age. A woman six months pregnant can use the system just as a 70-year-old man can. A person does not have to be in top physical peak. While the flexible nature alone is a benefit many people going through modern life do not feel that they can take the time out to exercise. Pilates exercises work best when a person can do them 2-4 times a week. The time investment required is often between 20-30 minutes, and that includes stretches and cool downs.
Nor is it expensive to being Pilates either. A person interested can purchase a beginner's Pilates DVD and start with the simple exercises. The Beginner Pilates DVD can serve as the only workout an individual does or serve as a stepping stone to more advanced moves. Users who go onto the advanced maneuvers may find it useful to purchase additional equipment. The Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair are commonly used in many gyms offering classes in this exercise regimen. The advantage to using this equipment is that it provides extra resistance. Rubber bands, arc barrels, and exercise balls can provide similar results to the gym equipment, although they do not provide results as quickly.
