Turning 40? How Pilates can help make this decade your best yet.
This year I am turning 40. This seems crazy because I remember vividly when my parents turned 40. At the time, 40 felt like the beginning of the end because it was treated as such. Over the hill mentality, the best years of your life are behind you, BS (that wasn’t true then and certainly isn’t true now). I don’t feel that way at all. I feel like I am stepping into my prime and excited about what lies ahead. I have two kids who are growing increasingly independent. I now have more time to focus on the things that are uniquely important to me. I have more time to focus on what brings me joy and shapes what I want my future to look like. Of course, my children are still my number one priority, but they sleep through the night, can read, and do most daily tasks without my assistance.
Aside from my family, my number one priority is my health. I want to make sure that in the next 40+ years, I can truly live a life filled with vitality. Such a life requires that we take care of our bodies and minds.
If you’re a like me, either fast approaching forty or solidly into your 4th decade, you might be feeling the effects of aging on your body. Maybe you’re experiencing more aches and pains, or you’ve noticed that your balance and flexibility aren’t what they used to be. Have no fear; there’s a solution that can help you feel and look better: Pilates!
Pilates is a low-impact exercise that builds strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements. It’s particularly beneficial for women in their 40s because it can help alleviate many aging-related physical challenges.
One of the key benefits of Pilates for women in their 40s is improved posture. As we age, our posture can suffer due to factors like muscle imbalances, weakened core muscles, and decreased flexibility. Pilates works to correct these issues by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and promoting proper alignment. This can improve your posture and reduce the risk of back pain and injury.
Another benefit of Pilates for women in their 40s is improved balance. As we age, our balance can decline, increasing the risk of falls and injury. Pilates helps to improve balance by strengthening the core muscles and incorporating exercises that challenge balance and stability. This can reduce the risk of falls and enhance athletic performance and allow us to continue doing all the activities we loved doing in our 20s and 30s.
Pilates can also help women in their 40s maintain or improve their flexibility. As we age, our muscles and joints can become stiffer and less mobile, making everyday tasks more difficult and increasing the risk of injury. Pilates incorporates stretching exercises that can help improve flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to move through daily activities.
Finally, Pilates can be a great stress reliever for women in their 40s. As we age, we may experience increased stress due to work, family responsibilities, and health concerns. Pilates provides a low-impact, mindful form of exercise that can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
If you’re a woman in your 40s looking to start your Pilates journey, it’s essential to choose a qualified instructor who can provide modifications and guidance as needed, especially if you have any injuries or health concerns. Ask yourself if you prefer to work out at home with a private teacher or if you prefer on-demand classes. If an in-person instructor is more in line with your preferences, that is an excellent option if you have a Pilates studio in your area.
Pilates is a fantastic exercise option for women in their 40s who want to maintain or improve their physical health, balance, and flexibility while reducing stress. So why not try it and see how it can benefit you? Schedule your introductory consultation today, and let’s determine your best path forward.
