Many, many years ago, someone who lived to the age of 50 was considered a miracle. But thanks to advances in science and technology, it is no longer surprising to live to 90 or even 100(!) years. But to have quality golden years, it is important to stay active. Unfortunately, ageing is not only about retirement and grandchildren - it is also a natural consequence of a number of diseases. The risk of developing rheumatism, arthritis, osteoporosis and many other similar diseases increases when we blow out the 50th candle. All of these can make it difficult to exercise regularly.

Thanks to Pilates, you don't have to give up an active lifestyle! Pilates was developed during the First World War. Joseph Pilates came up with the idea to equip hospital beds with springs, allowing bedridden patients to exercise. You don't have to think of it as something crazy difficult and complex - it's about simple exercises that have helped rehabilitate patients. This innovation later evolved into the Reformer, which is still used regularly today, even by people who can't walk.

Here's why older people should also try Pilates:

1. Pilates is gentle and modifiable.

Many Pilates exercises can be done sitting or even lying down. This way you don't put any weight on the joints, which can be quite sensitive in older age. The same effects can be achieved as with other exercises - the only difference is that there are no risks involved in lying or sitting. Pilates is also very useful after medical intervention - it is part of many rehabilitation programmes and can be used after operations such as hip and knee surgery. The Pilates instructor modifies the exercises so that they do not overload the student but still allow room for progress and development. Diseases such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure and diabetes are also no barrier.

2. Increases strength, flexibility and endurance.

Everyone who starts Pilates must first master control and stability. Smaller movements gradually increase strength and endurance - as opposed to large and aggressive movements that lead to premature fatigue and, in the worst cases, injury. As we progress, we will be able to perform more complex exercises, which will improve flexibility.

3. Helps to avoid falls.

Posture, balance, breathing and core strength are all essential elements of Pilates. For older people it is very important to focus on coordination and balance, as the passage of time does not spare these „skills”. This is why falls are more common in older age. Pilates increases the strength and flexibility of the trunk and legs, which has a positive effect on balance.

4. Preserves and improves mobility.

Sitting all day is associated with a number of health risks, regardless of age. The more we sit, the higher our risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, muscle and bone atrophy, diabetes, dementia and depression. However, as we stop moving as easily as we used to after 50, we sit more and more. It is undeniable that as the years go by, it becomes more challenging to maintain an active lifestyle. But with Pilates, mobility can be improved and by moving more easily, we become more energetic, feel better and, last but not least, stronger.

5. Reduces the symptoms of an existing disease.

There is plenty of research to support the idea that regular exercise can slow down the ageing process. Age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, muscular atrophy and various forms of dementia (such as Alzheimer's disease) are less likely to develop if we lead active lives. A 2016 study suggests that an eight-week Pilates exercise programme made it easier for stroke survivors to walk. Another study has also shown the positive effects of Pilates for people with Parkinson's disease. Pilates helps older people to live independently for as long as possible, which is a significant factor in slowing down symptoms and improving quality of life.