10 REASONS TO DO...

PILATES

1 BOOSTS BONE DENSITY Developed in the 20th Century by Joseph Pilates, the strength-building programme was initially invented to help people recover from injury. But it’s not just muscles that benefit – Turkish scientists recently found it boosts bone density too. That is important for women who have been through the menopause and are at increased risk of the bone-thinning condition osteoporosis.

2 KEEPS YOU STEADY ON YOUR FEET As we age, good balance becomes key to protecting us against falls. Pilates is one of the best ways to bolster core strength, according to recent research in the Journal of Ageing and Physical Activity. It found 60-year-olds had better balance and stability if they attended Pilates classes regularly.

3 GIVES YOU ABS OF STEEL Pilates is a surefire route to a ripped stomach,

according to Korean researchers. They found practising Pilates breathing techniques (deep breaths that expand the ribcage) while doing situps three times a week increased activation of muscles in the torso.

4 SOOTHES SORE BACKS

Studies show it’s one of the best ways to ease back pain. As core muscles get stronger, they take some of the strain off the lower back, relieving chronic pain. A study of lower back pain sufferers found most

got significant relief from frequent Pilates sessions.

5 BANISHES HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood pressure is one of the world’s biggest killers. But Pilates can keep it under control by dilating arteries and boosting blood flow. It’s biggest attraction? Studies suggest people are much less likely to abandon it than other forms of strenuous exercise.

6 ...AND KEEPS THE BRAIN HEALTHY

Scientists in Croatia recently discovered older women with early signs of dementia had better memory function if they regularly practised Pilates. It is thought to be due to better blood flow – and therefore oxygen – to the brain.

7 SIT UP STRAIGHT Spending the day hunched over a computer can leave you in agony. Pilates corrects poor posture by improving core strength and flexibility, reducing the

urge to slump in front of the keyboard.

8 AND BREATHE…… You might not think breathing rhythms are important but healthy lung function relies on strong muscles in the trunk and abdomen. A study last year in the Journal Of Bodywork And Movement Therapies found Pilates improves the strength of muscles controlling breathing.

9 IT’S A PERFECT PICK-ME-UP

Pilates isn’t just for the body – it benefits the mind too. A study last year showed elderly women were less likely to get depressed if they took part in weekly sessions over a four-month period.

10 ...AND BOLSTERS YOUR LIBIDO

Pilates can even put the zing back into your love life. Research shows pre-menopausal women have stronger libido and better sexual function if they regularly attend classes.