PILATES Q. (Re: Phys.Therapy for older people?)

Cograts on losing the weight! That alone will help you to tackle such a great physical training program as pilates.

I trained and worked at a gym for about 5 years, (BC- before children.)

As someone, (ahem) over 45, I can tell you that pilates along with a healthy diet and some cardio time is probably the best way to stay in shape for those over 40 or anyone just starting out with an excersize program. Swimming and water aerobic classes are also great low impact workouts and therapy especially for the lower extremities. All least these routines work for me.

I highly suggest you take a few beginner pilates classes with your doctor's recommendations for all of this, of course. You will be surprised how quickly your core muscles will respond to this type of controlled training.

When you are comfortable with the beginners stage, slowly advance. But relax and take it easy and above else be consistant and...have fun!


Pilates Basics

---

Thanks KEL and PB..I just tried walking today, a half a block and it was very painful, but I realize I'm starting at rock bottom. My instructor is very, very sweet, a 4th year intern, extremely gentle and very knowledgeable, more than an MD I believe. (the Pilates place is at 311 W43rd st, loads of dancers, except for me and a couple of others).
This is not a class, but rather a very specific 1 on 1, 1/2 hr, 2-3 x/wk. program as prescribed by the MD. I'm going to try and give it time, however it really hurts today, like a needle. Push on, I guess....