At our Pilates Power Studio in Holywood, Belfast (right next to the Coffee Yard!) we teach the Pilates Method through PoleStar. Senior Instructor Emily Waters was trained by the founders of the method in Sydney, Australia where she opened her first successful Pilates Power studio in Cronulla. Since then, Emily has taught Pilates and worked with people on their mobility and flexibility with great care and attention across Europe, the Caribbean, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.

As you age, your body becomes less flexible. When you were in your 20s, you probably didn’t notice much of a difference because you were still active. But as you get older, your joints don’t move as easily, so if you don’t do exercises that help flexibility, like Pilates, you’ll find it harder to move around.

Stretching exercises prevent tendons, ligaments, and muscles around joints from tightening and shortening. Limited joint movement also reduces fluid in joint cavities, which protect and nourish synovial joints. Cartilage and synovial fluid cushion bones and reduce friction, enabling greater movement and preventing bone rubbing, which causes pain, inflammation, and decreased mobility.

Decreased flexibility can also affect posture, increasing the risk of injury during bending, reaching, lifting, and sports. Sitting for long periods can lead to muscle tightness and spinal alignment issues, causing lower back pain, neck problems, and shoulder pain.

How Reformer Pilates helps you become more flexible

Stretching is a must-do before any physical activity. Pilates is a series of dynamic stretches and controlled movements that stretch your muscles and improve your flexibility. It’s a great exercise for older adults looking to improve their health, as well as for people who want to counteract the effects of a sedentary lifestyle. That’s because the best Pilates exercises give you a full-body workout that supports your body while working your core muscles.

Pilates is a fantastic way to improve your flexibility. Many people struggle with muscle tightness and stiffness, making it hard to move around. Reformer exercises stretch and strengthen different muscle groups, giving you a wider range of motion. For example, exercises like the “splits” and “spine stretch” gently stretch your muscles and improve your joint mobility. If you do Pilates regularly, you’ll notice a big difference in how easily you move around. This flexibility not only makes you feel better, but it also helps prevent injuries.

Improves Core Strength

One of the coolest things about reformer Pilates is how it helps you build a super strong core. Your core is made up of muscles in your tummy, lower back, hips, and pelvis. A strong core is like a secret weapon for stability and balance, making it easier to do everyday stuff. With reformer Pilates, you can target your core muscles like a pro. Exercises like the “hundred” and “short spine” really work those muscles. By building a strong core, you’ll stand taller, stay injury-free, and even perform better in sports.

Offers Versatility and Adaptability

Pilates is a super versatile workout that can be tailored for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro athlete, the reformer has a ton of exercises that you can change up to suit your skill level.  If you’ve had any injuries, reformer Pilates is a great low-impact option. It’s perfect for strengthening without putting too much stress on your body. Plus, you can adjust the resistance levels so you can progress at your own pace.