Pilates is becoming more and more popular with men as well as women – but what many don’t realize is that it’s an ideal workout for kids as well. Children pick up on body image concerns by watching others. We can counteract body image issues by starting kids early on simple exercise routines that they can continue with and feel good about whether they turn out to love sports or are bookish by nature!
Pilates covers all of the areas of healthy exercise needed for growing children. Even a baby can go to a Mommy and me or Daddy and me Pilates class and start learning to love the time they spend exercising. Older kids can incorporate their love of other activities into their Pilates – from the child who dances to the one who plays ball! (Tip: Show them a celebrity in their chosen sport or activity that does Pilates. I almost guarantee you that in every instance, you can find someone who does Pilates!)
Flexibility and Core Health
Children are more flexible than adults, but as we age we lose much of that flexibility. Getting started on Pilates when young instills a habit that can help the individual retain flexibility much later in life. Extra flexibility also means less chance of serious injury and faster healing time if an injury does occur.
Coordination, Balance and Posture
Even as young children, we start patterning our behavior and falling into habits as regards our posture and coordination. Bad habits can lead to muscle and joint pain and even bad back problems. For kids with scoliosis, this can be even more likely. Pilates includes correct movement patterns, promotes good posture, and can be used to teach children how to move gracefully and efficiently without causing strain to joints or muscle groups. Kids with inner ear issues can also benefit from the balance that Pilates teaches.
Concentration and Focus
Kids who are all over the place often calm and become focused when given an intense workout to do. Being allowed to move their bodies in controlled ways allows them to relax and then turn that focus towards academic subjects. Split up your child’s day with alternating physical and brain centered activities, and use Pilates to teach them self-control and concentration.
Finally, Pilates can be a fun way for the entire family to spend time together and make a stronger familial bond. Everyone can work at their own pace, and use their own style – floor and mat Pilates, barre Pilates, equipment based Pilates, Pilates using an exercise ball, and more. Sign your family – kids included! – up today and find out how Pilates can benefit every person in the home.