Pilates and Breast Cancer

It is known that the principles of Pilates are helpful for almost everyone! Clients recovering or living with certain conditions have also benefited greatly from regular Pilates sessions. Not just conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, but also the nervous system, cardiovascular system, lymphatic system and endocrine system.
Recently, I have seen clients with conditions related to women's health: lymphedema, breast cancer and sacroiliac joint syndrome. Pilates has been wonderful for them!  Check out this article for some great information on applying the Pilates principles for clients with breast cancer! http://www.homeceuconnection.com/blog/how-the-pilates-principles-can-help-breast-cancer-survivors/

Benefits of Pilates

Improved strength, flexibility, and posture are just the tip of the ice berg!

A Pilates workout lead by a qualified instructor will challenge your body and your mind. It will leave you feeling taller and energized. When practiced consistently two to three times a week Pilates is the perfect way to prevent injuries, rehabilitate or improve your athletic performance.

The Pilates apparatus will allow you to get even more from your workout!

Click here to find out more about the benefits of Pilates from the Pilates Method Alliance.

3 tips everyone should know!

Exercise...How much and what type is best? We all want the most bang for our buck. We want instant results that are painless. Just after a good workout you should feel energized, with a clear mind!       

Improved strength and endurance will come if you follow these easy tips:

1.      Work with a qualified and knowledgeable fitness professional who understands your lifestyle and motivation.
As a Pilates instructor I provide advice for clients on an individual basis. One thing that is true for everyone is that you need a complete program that addresses strength, endurance and flexibility. Pilates is one piece of the puzzle. The heart is a muscle just like the abdominals and it needs to be strengthened through exercise that challenges your cardiovascular system. Pilates exercise will keep you strong and flexible, but you still need to mix in some jogging or dancing that will get your heart rate up during each week.

Physical therapists, exercise physiologist and athletic trainers are highly educated in this area and can provide you with a safe and effective program. If you choose a Pilates instructor be sure they have at least a 500 hour certification from a reputable program. If you choose a personal trainer go with someone who is ACSM certified (American College of Sports Medicine) and is recommended by someone you trust.

2.       Incorporate things you love!
If you like being outside join a hiking or cross country skiing group. If you love to dance take up ballroom dance or try zumba or any type of dance aerobics class.

3.       Listen to the scientists!

Major health organizations such as the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Heart Association invest tons of time and money into research that gives us the most current and high quality guidelines for exercise. Here are the 2 must do’s from the scientists:
    1. Do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity like a brisk walk or 75 minutes of vigorous activity like running each week
    2.  Do muscular strengthening activities on 2 or more days such as weightlifting or a group exercise class focused on strengthening (this is where Pilates will pay off!)

Most importantly make it fun!

Always check with your primary care physician if you are unsure about participating in exercise because of a health condition.


In health,

Ashli