and Health

Pilates is a popular form of exercise and has become a popular choice for all age groups, including those going through menopause. This specialized form of exercise is known to reduce stress and increase physical strength, flexibility and balance. It has been found to assist menopausal women to manage the accompanying physical and psychological symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, depression and fatigue.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is an exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates. It focuses on low-impact, slow and smooth movements designed to strengthen and stretch the body. It is done on a mat or specialized machines and combines elements of yoga, Tai Chi, stretching and resistance-training with adapted routines and positions suitable for all levels of fitness.

Benefits of Pilates for Managing Menopause and Health

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Studies have indicated that Pilates helps lower stress and anxiety levels in older women going through menopause. It has been proposed that the slow and mindful movements help to encourage relaxation, lower heart rate and reduce tension in the muscles. The meditative practice of Pilates encourages a more positive outlook and can improve overall mood in menopausal women.

Promote Healthy Weight

Menopause can often lead to an increase in body fat and difficulty maintaining or reaching a healthy weight. As well as making healthy diet and lifestyle changes, Pilates can be beneficial for managing weight when practiced regularly and with the correct technique. Pilates helps to build and strengthen muscle through low-impact movements, improve posture and balance and increase metabolism.

Achieve Balance and Flexibility

Flexibility and balance can decrease as we age, especially during menopause due to hormonal changes. Pilates improves strength and stability while helping to gently increase flexibility. The movements help to promote increased mobility and reduce tightness and inflammation, making everyday activities easier to perform.

Improve Wellbeing

Pilates is known to improve physical and mental wellbeing. Movement helps to stimulate the body’s release of dopamine and serotonin, the brain’s ‘feel good’ hormones. Pilates encourages mindfulness and can therefore assist with improving sleep patterns and managing stress and depression common in menopausal women.

Conclusion

Pilates can help to improve physical and mental health in menopausal women. It is suitable for all levels of fitness and encourages strength, flexibility and balance. Additionally, Pilates has been found to reduce stress, improve weight management, and overall wellbeing. Through regular practice, Pilates can be helpful for managing symptoms associated with menopause.