Pilates is great for neurological conditions

The inherent qualities of Pilates make is perfect for support and management of neurological conditions.

Pilates works on key issues of including balance, spasticity and rigidity of the muscles, weakness and gait.

Just before I was diagnosed with MS, I was super in to the gym. Give me high intensity, heavy weights and lots of activities that make you sweat! Then one day when I was running on the treadmill, I notice these weird pins and needles running up the back of my legs and spine. It was almost like an electrical current.

It was really interfering with my training, so I went off to see an Osteo, who tried to treat the issue, but nothing seemed to help. It was only when I casually mentioned the issue to my mum that she suggested I go see a Neurologist

After 2 years and mulitple relapses, I was finally diagnosed with MS. By this time, I was finding it hard to do high intensity workouts. Anything that overheated me really took its toll. My recovery time seem to be double what it used to be. And my balance was all over the place.

Frustrated, my MS Nurse suggested I give Pilates a go.

During my early classes, it became obvious to me and my amazing instructors that I had no idea how to listen to my body, or pickup cues it was putting down. It was like I had to learn how to exercise all over again. It wasn't about smashing out as many reps as possible, but listening to what my body needed, and what I could do to support it.

Mind blown.

I continued to have a few relapses, but Pilates always helped my recover. At one point I was using a walking stick for stability. My teacher helped my build my core strength and balance issues so I didn't have to use the stick anymore.

I am living proof on the effect that Pilates can have on your life if you have a neurological condition like MS, Parkinson's, Stroke and more. It's definitely not a one size fits all approach but have hope that Pilates can help you work on your mobility issues.