1. Pilates maintains bone and joint health

Your bones go through a lot during perimenopause and menopause – as the body’s oestrogen levels begin to drop, bone density decreases, putting you at increased risk of osteoporosis. But the good news is that pilates can help to counteract this shift.

“Strength training in pilates, either using body weight or by incorporating resistance work, will support bone health and, in turn, may help to prevent osteoporosis,” explains Clare Roberts, a pilates instructor at the online platform Live Brave. “I really believe that strength and bone health are like a bank account – start early, as no one wants to go into their overdraft.”

The drop in hormones associated with menopause can also give rise to joint pain, especially in areas such as the lower back and knees. This is because oestrogen helps to manage joint inflammation, so when the levels of the hormone decrease, you’re more likely to experience pain and stiffness in these areas.

However, by relieving tension and improving mobility, pilates can make a difference here too. “Pilates exercises help to reduce discomfort by releasing tension and mobilising stiff, sensitive or sore joints,” Roberts adds. “It also strengthens the muscles to better support the musculoskeletal system as a whole.”

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