Pilates and Breast Cancer

by: AndreaDow
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Word Count: 372

Tuesday, May 27th

When I learned that my very dear friend, LisaMay Scott, was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was very frightening. We were completing our training in New York when she shared the news. I just remember thinking that none of my concerns really mattered in comparison to what she was about to go through. Fast forward a couple of years and LisaMay is a survivor and full of life and energy! Her story can be read in detail on the Power Pilates website and you can help fight breast cancer by purchasing a t-shirt that says "movement heals". At Power Pilates, we truly believe that movement heals and LisaMay is just one of many success stories!

According to the National Cancer Institute, about 2.4 million women living in the United States have been treated for breast cancer. Author PJ O'Clair states that while early detection and advancements are helping many women survive, "cancer treatments can take an enormous toll: in just a year of treatment, the body can age a decade". Women are left feeling challenged doing their activities of daily living due to weight gain, muscle loss, and premature bone loss. Pilates is a wonderful tool to use to help women recover and rebuild their bodies. It seems perfectly suited to build core strength, repattern musculature and facilitate movement. also, more research is showing the importance of exercise to prevent cancer recurrence.

How can Pilates help people with breast cancer recover? According to IDEA fitness journal, the benefits of a Pilates program for breast cancer survivors are:
1. Improvements in lymphatic drainage via proper breathing techniques
2. Improved shoulder girdle mechanics, specifically scapula-humeral rhythm, to aid in the breakdown of scar tissue and frozen shoulder.
3. Restores overall range of motion, flexibility, strength and endurance
4. Restores upright postural alignment and balance
5. Increases strength of local and global stabilizing muscles
6. Enhances core strength and endurance
7. Improves overall kinesthetic awareness
8. Re-establishes proper muscular firing patterns
9. Reduces both physiological and emotional stress
10. Improves appearance
11. Increases self-confidence and overall well-being

If you have breast cancer, consider Pilates to aid in your recovery. Be sure to have an open conversation with your instructor and communicate your needs. And remember, movement heals!

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