Will here, with a warm welcome back to the HRF blog.
Today, we’re chatting about something I’ve noticed more and more at the gym – folks in their marginally mid to latter years eager to embrace all that is strength training but currently sticking only to yoga or Pilates.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a good downward dog or the core-burning finesse of Pilates.
It’s brilliant for flexibility, mobility, core strength, and balance – all essential pieces of the fitness puzzle.
But (and it’s a big but), is it enough to protect against muscle loss, a.k.a. atrophy? Is it giving your vital organs the protection they deserve as we get older? Let’s dig into it.
Pilates and Yoga: The Good Stuff
First off, I’m not here to knock yoga or Pilates. They are fantastic disciplines that can improve your overall well-being, posture, mental clarity, and more. For many of you who are already devoted to these practices, you’ve got a solid foundation.
But there’s a bit of a myth I need to tackle head-on: the idea that yoga or Pilates alone are enough to keep you at peak health as you age. That, my friends, is a touch narrow-minded.
There it is. I’ve said it.
The Holy Grail: Combining Strength Training with Your Existing Routine
Here’s the golden nugget I want you to take away today: blending resistance training with yoga or Pilates is what I like to call the holy grail of fitness as we move through our 40s and 50s.
Strength training isn’t just about bulging biceps or deadlifting your bodyweight (although, side note, nothing feels quite as good as that post-lift buzz!). It’s about future-proofing your body, maintaining muscle mass, and giving your organs that protective ‘armour’ that only comes from working with resistance.
Think about it: as we age, our muscle mass naturally declines. This not only impacts our strength but our metabolic health, joint stability, and even the way we balance. Adding resistance training to your fitness mix helps fight against this natural atrophy, keeping you stronger, more energised, and yes – safer from potential injuries.
Why Personal Trainers Matter: Making the Most of Your Time
If you’re new to the gym floor or a bit unsure how to incorporate strength training, that’s where the real magic of having a personal trainer comes in. A PT can design a program tailored to your goals, abilities, and current fitness level, making each session count.
You get personalised guidance on lifting safely and effectively – no wandering around the weights section, scratching your head.
I’m not saying ditch your yoga mat or your Pilates reformer.
Far from it. But folding in resistance training means you’re covering all the bases: flexibility, core stability, mobility, and crucially – strength.
Your One-Stop Shop for Total Fitness
At HRF, we’re all about that balanced approach. Some of you regular readers might know where I’m going with this…
We’ve got everything under one roof to support your fitness journey, whether you’re stretching out on a yoga mat or pumping iron. For those of you looking to add that extra layer of flexibility to your strength program, we even have our Stretch and Mobility class on Wednesday evenings, led by our very own Coach Ryan Silvester.
It’s the perfect bridge between strength training and improving overall mobility.
A Word to the Yoga and Pilates Devotees
I know there’s some chatter out there from teachers who might say, “Yoga or Pilates is all you need.” And while those practices are game-changers in their own right, that line of thinking can be limiting.
Your body deserves a comprehensive approach to fitness that adapts as you age.
So, if you’re in your 40s or 50s, keen to stay fit, strong, and balanced, consider stepping into the weights section with us at HRF.
You might be surprised at just how transformative the combination can be.
Remember, fitness should make you feel empowered, not confined to one way of doing things.
Ready to give it a go? We’re here to help you find that rhythm.
Stay strong, stay flexible, and keep challenging yourself.
See you at the gym,
Will