The Pilates Rx Blog

Bone loss throughout the lifetime is a natural part of aging. However, movement can play a major role in helping to keep your bones strong. Diagnoses such as osteoporosis and osteopenia may make people hesitant to exercise as these conditions can increase risk of fractures and affect long term mobility. Despite this concern, finding the right type of exercise can actually help to support your bone health and improve overall stability. While factors such as nutrition and genetics influence bone density, safe and appropriate exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to support long-term bone health.

When we think about our “core,” most of us picture our six-pack abs. But when a physical therapist or Pilates instructor cues your deep core, we’re usually talking about muscles that run much deeper than what you can see in the mirror. Your deep core has far more to do with support and stability than appearance. It’s the system that helps protect your spine, manage pressure in your abdomen, and create a stable foundation for movement. If you’ve been dealing with back pain, pelvic floor symptoms, or you feel like your core workouts “aren’t working,” understanding your deep core muscles can change everything.

When people think about “glutes,” we usually picture the glute max: the muscle we associate with power, strength, and aesthetics. But from a functional standpoint, one of the most important glute muscles is actually the gluteus medius.

The glute medius is a key player in pelvic stability, hip control, and lower-extremity alignment. When it’s working well, movement feels smooth, supported, and efficient. When it’s underactive or fatigued, other tissues often step in to compensate sometimes leading to pain or recurring injuries.