Pilates for the Heart

Someone who has a weak heart usually gets discouraged to engage in exercise or a good work-out.  There is a presumption that if people exercise and work-out, it can trigger a heart attack.  This is not true.  This is mostly because people don’t know what their body is capable of, and more specifically how long they should be working out.  A good work-out does not have to be a strenuous work-out.  A strenuous work-out does not necessarily mean a good work-out.  If people with a heart condition run or ride a bike, they can get pains in the chest, because it may be too stressful for them. Finding which exercise suits a person ‘s body type and structure is important in order to strengthen their heart and make them feel more energized.

Pilates exercises teach people how to breathe properly, allowing more air into the lower rib cage three dimensionally.  This in turn means more air for the lungs and for good gas exchange to the different organs, including the heart, as well as good circulation.  Pilates also increases a person’s core strength and stability, as well as longer, leaner muscles.  All these benefits come from a low-impact, non-stressful work-out….one that is best for a person with a weak heart.

by:  Sue Chae