Abby McLachlan, a Pilates instructor, says the exercise – which is low-impact and low-intensity – is the best form of workout for those over 50, dramatically changing the body in just a few months
A fitness guru has shared the ultimate exercise that can “completely transform your body” in a matter of months, and it doesn’t involve gasping for air like you would after an intense cardio session. Many of us are aware that regular physical activity is key to staying fit and healthy.
However, individuals over 50 may find traditional high-intensity workouts such as HIIT less suitable. Fortunately, there are alternative methods to keep active without pushing to extremes.
Fitness instructor Abby McLachlan vouches that Pilates represents the finest low-impact exercise for the older demographic aiming to rejuvenate their look and feel younger. This exercise regime, which dates back a century, not only enhances muscle strength but also encourages movement and flexibility, along with offering anti-ageing advantages—all this while being gentle on the body, thus being perfect for every age group and fitness level.
Speaking with The Express, Abby explained: “Pilates is nearly 100 years old, with origins rooted in healing and rehabilitation. It was invented by Joseph Pilates initially to help fellow inmates develop muscle strength at an internment camp on the Isle of Man but now is practised in gyms and boutique studios around the world, including at East of Eden in Walthamstow.”
She elaborates further, stating: “Like yoga, it is a mind and body practice, matching breath to movement, but in yoga, you use the breath to connect the mind and body to a higher consciousness.”
Moreover, you don’t need to attend Pilates classes for years before you start seeing results – just 10 sessions are enough to make you “feel better”, and 30 sessions will give you a “new body”. She further stated: “You will feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20 sessions, and have a completely new body in 30 sessions.”
Pilates focuses on spinal alignment and the small muscles that provide your musculoskeletal system with support.
However, Abby advises anyone suffering from spinal injuries to consult a qualified Pilates instructor before attending a class. Similarly, pregnant women should ensure they see a prenatal-trained instructor, as some exercises are unsuitable for pregnancy.
“A lifetime of poor posture – hunching over your computer or phone, carrying children and heavy bags on one side – can lead the muscles in your back to become weak and strained, leading to joint and disc issues,” the expert said. “Pilates concentrates on strengthening the deep postural muscles, raising awareness of how one stands and the general alignment of hips, spine and head.
“This awareness alone can go a long way to improving posture, but the strength built with highly targeted, specific exercises will support the spinal column, in effect future-proofing your body.”
Abby explains that Pilates focuses on bolstering the muscles around the spine, including the core and glutes. It also supports joint health by ensuring they are encased in strong muscles, potentially lowering injury risks.
She elaborated: “It’s a form of exercise that can be done into old age without any negative impact on the body and joints, and helps maintain cognitive ability, balance, bone density as well as spinal health.”
