Is it safe to practice Pilates with osteoporosis? It can be! Here's what you need to know.
Osteoporosis weakens the bones, making them brittle and susceptible to fractures. While it predominantly affects women over age 50, an increasing number of men and younger women are also affected. Focusing on bone health early on is ideal for prevention, but it's never too late to start making positive changes. Pilates can be a beneficial exercise choice but needs appropriate modifications. A bone-friendly Pilates class has numerous benefits for overall bone health and is safe for those with low bone density, osteopenia, or osteoporosis. Working one-on-one with a certified instructor who understands osteoporosis and can customize a program specifically for you is the best approach. Although research on whether Pilates increases bone density is inconclusive, most studies indicate that Pilates can prevent further bone deterioration and is a safe workout with many other benefits. Besides increasing bone density, bone resilience is also essential. Weight training is recommended in addition to Pilates to adapt the bones to heavier loads. Pilates principles, such as breath, concentration, precision, and flow, enhance self-awareness, which contributes to overall well-being. Pilates can also reduce pain, improve quality of life, boost mood, decrease stress, and enhance balance and posture. While traditional Pilates exercises like excessive flexion and twisting are not suitable for osteoporosis patients, modified Pilates can be safe and beneficial. The key is to find a qualified instructor to guide you safely.