Why Pilates is the Perfect Exercise for Women over 50

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Pilates is a fabulous method of exercise for any body, but if you are a woman over the age of 50 you may find it’s the perfect form of exercise for you.

Have you ever said:

  • I just want to stay strong and lean.
  • I see my mom aging and know I want to keep my own body fit, strong, flexible and functional so I can live life to the fullest.
  • I want an instructor/trainer who understands that I’m not 25 and trains me accordingly.IMG_2412
  • I want to enjoy my workouts.

The Pilates Method of exercise may be the perfect exercise for you and here’s why:

  • The Pilates Method combines strength, balance, and flexibility into one very efficient workout session that will keep you lean and strong.
  • The Pilates Method focuses on using proper body mechanics and teaches you how to move in a way that will balance out your body and prevent injuries as you age.
  • The Pilates Method is truly a movement practice that can be done at any level and can be done throughout your entire lifetime.
  • A PMA Certified Pilates instructor has had over 500 hours of initial training and mentoring hours that results in experienced instructors who understand how to work with bodies of all ages, levels and conditions.
  • The Pilates Method uses a variety of equipment and props so that there is a ton of variety.  You’ll develop a practice of movements and exercises that become familiar to your body but you’ll also be continually challenged.

 

Click here to learn more about trying out Pilates at Rivercity Pilates!!  Schedule a complimentary private session and learn what it can do for your body!  At Rivercity Pilates we offer private Pilates sessions, semi-private Pilates sessions(scheduled with a friend or family member) and small group classes(averaging 6-8 clients per class).

 

 

 

Inspiration of the Month – Linda Meyer

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When did you start Pilates and what inspired you to start?

I started taking Pilates to get in better shape, way back in 1999 at Nolte Academy and was immediately addicted!  After a few classes I noticed my chronic headaches, triggered by neck pain, were reduced.  I continued for several years until I could no longer attend classes due to a change in my work hours.  I was so excited to discover Rivercity Pilates right here in North Liberty and there are class times available for almost any work schedule.

What benefits have you seen by committing to a regular Pilates practice? 

In addition to better posture and alignment, I have more energy and enthusiasm for everyday life.

Why did you decide to do the 2015 Inspire Your Life Challenge? 

I am so grateful that my girlfriend Sandy Schaefer got me motivated.  It helps to have someone to have to answer to.  One of our favorite hobbies is finding local restaurants and enjoying every bite!  I used to collect recipes, now I collect menus!  The challenge has motivated me to move more and improve my health and still be able to enjoy my food!

What has been your favorite part about the Challenge so far? 

Bridging out from just Pilates, to the Barre and the Empower Strength classes also.  It definitely rounds out the overall wellness experience.

Do you have a favorite exercise or piece of equipment (or both)?

Favorite equipment is definitely Tower, but you just can’t beat bouncing on the stability ball for a warm up!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing Pilates?  

For sure everyone should try it.  It is so good for a person’s mental and physical well-being.  It is a part of my life that is a priority. The studio is also great for adapting the routines so everyone can do it!  It would be easy to feel intimidated by an exercise class, but at Rivercity, you can be inspired and made to feel comfortable with your fitness level while you improve your health.

Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout for Home

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Rivercity Pilates owner Carey Sadler teaches an Intermediate Pilates Mat session that you can do at home!!

#1 Pilates exercise to strengthen your core and stretch your upper back!

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This quick and easy Pilates move feels great and works amazingly to strengthen your core, stretch your upper back,shoulders and chest and increase the mobility in your spine.  We know it sounds like a lot for one exercise- but that’s the magic of Pilates!  Try it yourself and let us know what you think!!

Pilates Standing Arm Springs on the Tower

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Rivercity Pilates owner, Carey Sadler instructs on a few variations of the Pilates Standing Arm Series on the Tower system.  The Standing Arm Spring sequence requires whole body engagement in order to suspend the body into the springs while moving the arms with control.  Try out these exercises yourself by joining one of our group Pilates Tower Classes!!  Check out our current schedule here.

Shoulder and Chest Stretch with the Theraband

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Carey Sadler, owner of Rivercity Pilates in North Liberty, IA demonstrates a simple exercise you can do to stretch the shoulder and chest with a medium weight Theraband.