Regularly recommended by GPs and physiotherapists, Pilates is one of the best, holistic forms of exercise and is beneficial for general fitness, body awareness and rehabilitation following surgery or injury. It has also been shown to benefit people who have a range of conditions often found in the over 50 age group such as arthritis, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, pelvic floor issues, declining mobility and loss of balance.

Pilates is also well suited to be done in the home, even in smaller living rooms. The only equipment recommended is a mat for floor-based exercises, making it hassle free and ensuring there is no large financial outlay.

Real Life Story
Sylvia, 70, who participates in the DVD workout, explains how undertaking regular Pilates sessions has improved her health and well being: “I have a medical condition in my spine, which affects my leg. I thought exercise might help. I tried a few things but didn’t get on with them, until I experienced Pilates with Liz. When I last saw my consultant, he said “You are obviously doing really well; you should stay as you are”.

Before I started Pilates, my consultant said that I would need surgery. Pilates has helped to stabilise my condition. I have definitely noticed a positive difference in my health since I have been doing Pilates, I feel a lot better than some of my friends my age.”

Title: Real People Pilates: for over 50s
Running Time: 63 minutes
Format: DVD (also available in VHS format through the Real People Pilates website
RRP: £16.99
Stockists: www.realpeoplepilates.co.uk
www.amazon.co.uk
www.pilates.co.uk

What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of low impact exercise which focuses on building the body’s core strength, improving flexibility, balance, stamina and alignment

Famous Pilates devotees include:
Joan Collins (72)
Michael Crawford (66)
Rod Stewart (63)
Sally Field (61)
Martin Amis (59)
Patrick Swayze (56)
Melanie Griffith (51)
Kim Cattrall (52)
Madonna (50)

Not to forget…. Dame Helen Mirren (63) whose red bikini clad body set tongues wagging last summer is also known to include Pilates within her exercise regime

About Liz Chandler:
A former UCLA graduate, Liz comes from a professional contemporary dance background and has performed professionally with companies in both the US and the UK. She has also lectured and taught dance for Bath City College and the University of Bath, England.

It was through a potentially career-ending spinal injury that Liz discovered Pilates and since then she has undertaken professional teaching qualifications and established the Pure Moves Pilates studio in the South West of England.

Highly experienced in working with the 50+ age group, Liz runs professional workshops for the Pilates Foundation, to train instructors in the benefits of functional Pilates for the older person as well as workshops for physiotherapists.

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