Pilates for Bad Knees

Injuries, too much stress, and genetic factors can be the cause of problem knees. The wrong choice of exercise program can make bad knees even worse, further straining the knees, possibly resulting in painful - and costly - knee replacement surgery. The pain and discomfort associated with knee problems can cause many people to give up on fitness programs, as many exercises can further strain the knees. There are, however, exercise programs that reduce strain on the knees. These exercises make it possible to build a healthier body without increasing stress on already troubled knees.

Low-impact exercise, such as yoga and Pilates, is beneficial to people suffering from knee pain. Various yoga poses can reduce knee stress. Yoga focuses on stretching and maintaining good breathing. Some athletes have even incorporated yoga into their overall fitness regimens because of its benefits for both mind and body. Individual yoga instructors can recommend poses and exercises that won't strain the knees.

Pilates is a program of low-impact exercise developed by Joseph Pilates during World War II. The exercises focus on building strength, especially in the core - namely the abdominals and the lower back. Over the years, Pilates has become increasingly popular as a form of exercise. Pilates can build strength, improve flexibility, and relieve stress. For people who want to lose weight, flatten their stomach, reshape their torso, and firm up their muscles, Pilates is an excellent exercise choice. For these reasons, Pilates is a popular form of exercise for dancers.

For people with knee problems, Pilates is beneficial because of its emphasis on strengthening the core and improving the posture. Few Pilates exercises require any strain on knees, while the leg exercises focus on building strength in the hamstrings and quads. Improved strength in these muscles reduces the strain on knee joints.

Because Pilates focuses on strengthening the core muscles, practitioners develop better posture, which lessens the strain on the knees that results from bad posture. People interested in practicing Pilates should consult an instructor and discuss any knee problems they have. Many gyms and health clubs offer Pilates classes. There also are studios and schools that specialize in Pilates and yoga classes. In addition, there are a wide range of instructional books and videos that provide an introduction to Pilates. People with knee problems should, of course, consult their physicians for advice about any program of exercise they may be considering.