I just celebrated a big birthday. Strange how time creeps up on you. The weird thing is I still feel the same as I did in my thirties. Pilates has kept me balanced, flexible, and strong. I do cardio, but my main fitness component is Pilates. I've been in this business a long time, and as myself and clients age, I realize those that are consistent enjoy a better quality of life. We all have life events at one time or another, but it seems those with the strong foundation in Pilates bounce back with vigor. Now, this is not a scientific study but many decades of observation. I'm sure an argument can be made for many forms of exercise, consistency is the key. But my forte and observational study is Pilates.

As we age, our muscles atrophy as much as 3 to 5 percent after our thirtieth birthday. Of course, that is for individuals that are physically inactive. Around the age of seventy-five, it goes into overdrive. But it can speed up around the age of sixty-five too. Symptoms of atrophy or sarcopenia are weakness and loss of stamina. Now sarcopenia can happen for other reasons than lack of physical activity. A visit to your physician will help you if another reason is causing it. But, lack of physical activity is one of the leading causes. Specifically, resistance or strength training helps to prevent sarcopenia. Basically, these activities increase muscle strength and help with your neuromuscular system and hormones. Also, as a bonus, it allows the body to convert protein into energy more effectively.

Pilates increases strength, balance, and flexibility, especially on the apparatus. While the core seems to be the word of choice to describe Pilates, it is much more. Pilates is designed as a complete and effective whole-body workout. Yes, Pilates works at the core of every exercise. The core is like the engine, as everything stems from it. The great news is you build incredible strength and balance in all core muscles, including deep stabilizers. So, our core is turned on when we are doing a Pilates bicep curl. The best way to understand Pilates is to try a session on the apparatus. If you've never seen the apparatus of Pilates, google it, and you'll see the various pieces that we use. It's a workout that can be for anyone, regardless of age or limitations. It's never too late to start.

For more information about fitness and health, please get in touch with Kay Colgan at Middleburg Pilates and Personal Training, 14 S Madison Street, Middleburg, Va., or call 540-687-6995. Be balanced, flexible, and strong!