Osteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions that affect millions worldwide, presenting unique challenges to movement practitioners. To address this growing concern, Beth Kaplanek is introducing an exciting new course, “Understanding Osteoporosis & Osteopenia,” scheduled for January 18th.
This workshop is designed to empower Pilates instructors with practical knowledge and strategies to create bone-safe movement programs that prioritize client safety and well-being.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Beth to discuss her upcoming workshop, the significance of bone health, and how Pilates can be a game-changer for individuals at risk.
Why is it important for Pilates practitioners to understand osteoporosis and osteopenia?
Polestar Pilates: Can you explain the impact of silent fractures and why they’re a critical concern for individuals with these conditions?
Beth Kaplanek: Bones are built, broken down, and rebuilt; this is the life cycle of the skeleton that supports your body and facilitates movement. However, when you lose bone density and are diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis, a twist, bend, or simple misstep and fall can snap a weakened bone.
- 54 million people in the US have low bone density.
- 1 out 2 women over 50 and 1 out of 4 men over 70 are at risk.
- According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, every 3 seconds worldwide, someone breaks a bone due to osteoporosis.
Bone remodeling and density concerns affect everyone. As a movement specialist in Pilates, awareness of the pathology and adherence to movement guidelines is essential. 50% of all women over 50 in your classes could be at risk for a fracture.
Osteoporosis is a major public health problem in this country. It affects all racial groups and can rob individuals of their independence and quality of life.
The good news? Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable with the right knowledge and interventions!
Course Details & Practical Applications
PP: How does your workshop equip instructors to design bone-safe Pilates programs?
BK: In this workshop, students will learn bone safe movement precautions and modifications to prevent fractures and ensure client safety, assessment tools to design individualized movement programs, and multi-modal movement strategies to enhance strength, impact, and resistance, aiding bone remodeling.
PP: What role does Pilates equipment, like the Reformer, play in managing osteoporosis effectively?
BK: Pilates on both the equipment and mat is an ideal form of movement for increasing total body strength with progressive resistance. It can be modified for successful movement experiences that bring joy and confidence to clients. Improved balance, posture and alignment are major health benefits to a continuous and on-going weekly practice of Pilates.
PP: What are some examples of mat exercises that are particularly beneficial for individuals with low bone density?
BK: Exercises that prioritize progressive resistance and balance are especially beneficial. Quadruped, Leg Pull, Leg Pull front and spinal extension movements are very valuable to incorporate in a mat program. Standing movements, squats, lunges and single leg balance are a must.
Broader Impact & Personal Insight
PP: What inspired you to create this workshop, and what do you hope participants take away from it?
BK: Low bone density is something that affects everyone and could happen at all ages. It is a major health epidemic in this country. I want to bring awareness and education to all movement instructors. They should understand the pathology, identify who is at risk, and adapt their programs accordingly. I want participants to feel confident applying the workshop material and become motivated to learn more.
PP: What advice would you give to new instructors working with clients who have osteoporosis or osteopenia?
BK: Be aware and know what to do—get educated on the subject!
PP: In your opinion, how can movement-based practices like Pilates evolve to better address conditions like osteoporosis?
BK: Pilates instructors have a duty to use critical reasoning in designing class programs. Addressing the needs of individuals with low bone density can elevate their practice and expand their reach in the field.
Pilates has the opportunity for evolution by incorporating more weight-bearing movements and impact to stimulate bone growth.
PP: How would you describe the course in one word?
BK: I have two: comprehensive and exciting!
To register for the course, please click here!
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