Pilates Myth Busters

There are many myths about Pilates: It’s too hard. It’s just for dancers. It’s too expensive. It’s not for people with osteoarthritis and other joint issues. In reality, this method can be quite gentle on the joints, doesn’t have to break the bank, and is something that can be practiced for life.

“Older adults may benefit greatly from Pilates exercises, as studies have shown that it can improve balance, strength and flexibility for this population,” says physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor Leena Uranwala, UCLA Medical Center. “The workout can be challenging for any fitness level or modified to accommodate people with various conditions, such as arthritis or those recovering from surgeries or injuries. This is why it is so frequently used by physical therapists worldwide.”

Myth vs. Reality

Here’s the reality behind most of the common myths about Pilates.

➥ It’s too expensive. One-on-one private sessions can be pricy, but to get started, it’s the recommended way to learn the exercises and prevent injuries. You can cut the cost in half by scheduling a “duet” or “semi- private,” session meaning two clients work with one instructor. After a number of these sessions, you can typically transition into small group equipment classes.

In contrast to equipment sessions, mat classes are typically no more expensive than yoga classes and may be free at fitness centers and YMCAs. Silver Sneakers may have live classes in your area (often without charge for those over age 65). Excellent videos can be found from such companies as Stott, Balanced Body, and PilatesAnytime.com (an online professional educational streaming source). All of them offer beginner videos appropriate for older adults.

➥ It’s too hard. To build strength, muscles need be challenged, so a solid effort is required. What distinguishes this from lifting weights is that Pilates is also “active stretching.” By strengthening and stretching at the same time, muscles are less sore in the days following a workout. In the beginning as you are learning, good instructors will keep you focused on doing movements correctly and at your level, which is essential.

➥ It’s just for dancers. Joseph Pilates was a boxer and gymnast. Though popular at dance schools today, in the early days dancers went to Joseph and Clara Pilates to rehab musculoskeletal injuries. As others learned of his method it spread and developed through devoted students. Mary Bowen, age 89, is one of the last remaining so-called “elders” who studied with Joe and Clara Pilates.

Look for Real Pilates

A lawsuit decreed that no one person or business could own the name Pilates. That led to an ever-expanding range of offerings, including some hybrids such as Yogalates and mat certifications that could be earned in a weekend. The best and most authentic Pilates comes from instructors who went through “comprehensive” training, which usually requires 300 hours or more of study. The exercise system taught closer to its original intention will garner the quickest and broadest benefits of strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and control. Also, seek out Pilates instructors who have experience working with older adults.

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