TheraPilates® Intermediate Mat Class for the Fit Older Adult

Presented by Sherri Betz

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Are you afraid to refer your patients to a general Pilates Mat Class? What if there was another option for a Pilates-based exercise program using the Pilates principles of alignment, breathing and core control that was safe, yet challenging for patients with all types of pathologies? It is expected that the students take the Introduction to Pilates for Rehabilitation 6 Class Series before beginning this class so that they understand the cuing and principles of alignment. Follow along with this “real-time” intermediate-level mat class taught to two fit older adults with osteoporosis! You might be surprised at the challenge!

Meet your instructor

Sherri Betz

Sherri Betz has been a physical therapist since 1991. She is a Geriatric Certified Specialist, PMA® Certified Pilates teacher, and director of TheraPilates® Physical Therapy Clinic since 2001. She was elected as the Vice-President of the Pilates Method Alliance in 2007 and served on the PMA Board of Directors from 2003-2009.…

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Chapters & learning objectives

Introduction

1. Introduction

The class begins with a review of the principles of alignment, and giving students permission to stop exercises if they are painful or if unusual symptoms appear.

Standing and Towel Exercises

2. Standing and Towel Exercises

We begin with Standing and Centering Cues and Fletcher Pilates TowelworkTM to promote postural and shoulder girdle awareness as developed by Pilates master teacher, Ron Fletcher.The Fletcher Pilates TowelworkTM is unique in facilitation of the infraspinatus and humeral head placement in the glenoid fossa and can easily be used for patients with shoulder pathologies. We continue with balance exercises, calf strengthening, plies, squats and lunges working through the fear of knee pain!

Mat, and Foam Roller Exercises

3. Mat, and Foam Roller Exercises

In this chapter, we will learn the Pilates stretches and transitions and exercises related to the mat and the foam roller. There will be a focus on breathing and core control.

Wrap Up

4. Wrap Up

The goal of this chapter will be to learn creative exercises to reduce excessive kyphosis or “dowager’s hump” using a firm air-filled 8” Massage Ball. Promote bone accretion and reduced kyphosis with the 3-Part Pilates Swan, Pre-Swimming and Double Leg Kick.