PilatesPlus Port Elizabeth

Starting an exercise routine? Go gently — your body will thank you later.
If you're living with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos, long Covid, or age-related muscle changes, this one's for you.
The golden rule when starting out: it should feel almost too easy. Not a workout you're pushing through — one you're barely trying at. Strength and endurance should build so gradually you hardly notice it happening. If you're sore the next day (or the day after), that's a sign to ease back, not push harder.
A special note for the hypermobile people: you might not feel much joint discomfort during movement — in fact, it can feel great, even a little addictive. But your ligaments and tendons aren't giving your joints the support they need, so the pain often shows up later, as an unwelcome surprise. What felt fine in the moment isn't always fine for your body.
So here's how to protect yourself:
Underdo it, always
Skip long deep stretches — stick to gentle maintenance ones
Keep your range of movement modest
Avoid leaning into wrists, elbows, and other vulnerable joints
Mobilise your spine and hips with slow, controlled movements
Progress here isn't about how far you can push. It's about patience. Slow and steady really does win — pushing too hard just means one step forward, three steps back.
Be kind to your body. It's listening. 💛

I find this fascinating. It explains to me how all living things are connected and how our mind is able to affect everything around and within, from a bacteria cell to chemical balance. It explains how we can draw energy, strength and healing from the dynamic energy of atoms. 'Atmosphere' takes on new meaning. Everything affects us and we affect everything. Breathe in some energy, focus on the 'light'. Consciously CHOOSE to draw in goodness and send out goodness. Not always easy. We can be negatively affected by everything, but we can try to shield ourselves from the negative and bathe in the positive.

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