Pilates is popular among adults, but Pilates for children is great too.  It helps them grow stronger, build concentration and minimize joint injury as they age. If you’re interested in learning more about how Pilates can benefit your kid, then keep reading.

Is Pilates good for children?

Pilates can be beneficial for children of all ages. It helps improve flexibility and strength, while also promoting correct posture and alignment.  Research has shown that children as young as 5 years old can benefit from a regular Pilates practice.  During a 10 week study, where 5 and 6 years old practiced Pilates twice a week, they gained improvement in flexibility, balance, jump strength, upper body strength and speed.  Physical development in children is closely linked with cognitive development, concentration and sensory integration.  The physical benefits of Pilates pour over into many areas of their young lives, including the classroom.

Pilates is suitable for children of all fitness levels.   It’s a great way for kids to get active and stay healthy. If you’re looking for an activity that benefits your child in both body and mind, pilates is definitely worth considering.

4 Benefits of Pilates for Children

1. Competition Free

Competitive sports are popular among youth.  They can develop good sportsmanship, teamwork skills and physical fitness, however they aren’t for everyone.  Some children may do better with physical activities that focus on personal development and enjoyment.  For these kids, PIlates is a great option.  Kids can practice Pilates in a group, still providing them with social interaction.  However, they’re goals and progress is individualized. 

2. Healthy Cross Training to Prevent Injury

For those young athletes who do enjoy team sports, Pilates is great for cross training.  This low-impact exercise is safe on their growing joints, which may help prevent injury.  Pilates focuses on core strength and incorporates flexibility training into each movement. Both of these are important in staying injury free.

3. Brain Development

Physical development is closely linked to cognitive development in youth.  Healthy minds integrate between the left and right hemispheres.  Cross lateral movement, found throughout Pilates classes, builds the brain’s ability to build neural pathways between the two hemispheres.

Cross lateral movement is when both sides of the body are called upon to complete a movement together.  For example, crawling, swimming and biking. Building these neural pathways helps kids develop a healthy mind.

4. Concentration

Pilates is well known as a mind/body modality.  Joseph Pilates said “A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion.”  

Good form in Pilates is paramount.  Coordinating multiple body parts, breath control and precision of movement requires intentional focus.  Building these concentration muscles in Pilates flows into every area of their life.  

The Last Thing You Need to Know about Pilates for Children

Pilates for children is a great asset to their development physically and cognitively.  Children as young as 5 have been shown to reap the benefits of this wonderful mind/ body practice.  When teaching Pilates for children, keep it fun and focus on building healthy habits.

Conclusion

Pilates is a great way to improve your child’s health and well-being. The benefits of Pilates for children include developing strong muscles, increased flexibility, preventing injuries, promoting brain development, and improving concentration skills. If you want your child to reap these benefits, contact ProHealth today!