SPECIALISTS IN EXERCISE
FOR ARTHRITIS
Common symptoms of arthritis include: pain, stiffness, loss of range of motion, stiffness and sensations of 'giving out' or instability.
Pilates can help relieve those symptoms in three ways:
- Pilates exercises develop the communication between your brain and body, making sure the nervous system activates the right muscles in the right way.
- Gentle stretching and repetitive movements bring oxygen and other nutrients to the affected joints, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- The activation of the deep layer of muscles in your body improves your balance and coordination so you can do the things you enjoy more confidently.
How does Pilates benefit arthritis sufferers?
It is recommended to do Pilates for arthritis twice a week.
In order to manage your symptoms, you can use this simple traffic light system:
- Red: during a flare up of inflammation, do not exercise.
- Yellow: if you experience moderate symptoms, do gentle exercises, with fewer repetitions and no resistance.
- Green: with no or mild symptoms, you can exercise as per your routine.
When should you exercise?
What does an arthritis Pilates class look like?
Our group arthritis classes are designed to be safe for all people with arthritis anywhere in the body.
You will start with gentle cardiovascular exercises to warm up thoroughly. This is followed by exercises to mobilise your joints and increase your flexibility. You will then move on to progressive sequences to improve your core strength and stability.
The class will also target the major muscles around the main joints, as well as hands, feet and neck.
In each class you will also practice common movements (e.g. changing position from sitting to standing) to ensure you can go about your daily life safely and without pain.