Yoga, Pilates and general purpose bending

[HectorsDad]

Any one tried Yoga, Pilates or the other similar ways of bending etc?

Thinking of improving flexibility and fitness now that straight exercise is more tricky (post MI, stents, suspected MVA etc etc.)

I note that there have been previous posts asking much the same, but no replies.

[bantam12]

Pilates is really good but I would recommend some 1 to 1 lessons first as group lessons are not tailored to your specific needs.

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

Hi HectorsDad

I find Tai Chi and Yoga both very helpful for me.

I have been going to classes in both since becoming ill 7 years ago. At first it was the only exercise I could do even if I had to keep sitting down throughout the class!

I have slowly built up my stamina and I have slowly increased the amount of exercise I can do.

I also enjoy the support and camaraderie of the other people I attend the classes with.

[kefalonia1 in reply to Milkfairy]

Hi, interesting post for me as l am thinking of taking up one or the other. Which one do you think is best and for what reason please? Sue.

[Milkfairy Heart Star in reply to kefalonia1]

Hi kefalonia1

I started with Tai Chi first. It is a gentle way to exercise. It helps you balance your breathing and helps with your balance.

I then added Yoga a few years ago which allowed me to build up my stamina and flexibility.

I would give either a go and see what suits you best.

I am sorry I can't say anything but I find both helpful for different reasons!

[kefalonia1 in reply to Milkfairy]

Thanks for you reply, l think they are running tai chi lessons locally to me from Jan. l will start there and see how l go. Thanks, Sue.

[45sue]

I do tai chi, yoga and pilates . The tai chi should be no problem & is suitable for all . The key for yoga & pilates is to find an experienced & knowledgeable teacher you can trust and who can adapt any postures etc. to suit your needs e.g not a good idea for hearties to spend long in inverted poses. The teacher I go to for both always suggests 2-3 alternatives depending on individual needs abilities & adapted things for me after my HA. When you find someone have a chat with them about your health & see what they suggest. I have never done one to one & enjoy a class for the camaraderie.

[Maisie2014]

I have been doing tai chi for over 20 years. I find since my heart attack I haven’t been able to manage it and I have no idea why. My husband did yoga for over 40 years but since developing a hiatus hernia has been told to stop so he does tai chi instead. I’m sure if you try them you’ll find which suits you best. Enjoy

[Hidden]

I did a 6 week Pilates course with the physio in my local hospital a few years ago when I complained of a bad back.I now do it twice a week and find it very good.x