Is a Pilates reformer good for osteoporosis?

I've also heard that Pilates is beneficial and a physical therapist recommended a specific studio for me. I didn't pursue it though. For one thing, it's expensive. Also, I understand there's bending and twisting involved which I've been told by an endo to avoid. It doesn't seem to be as good at muscle building as strength training, so that's what I'm doing. I hope others with experience will comment.

My gynecologist suggests pilates studio near me, with reformer. One she goes to, and she said they have staff that understand the no twist no bend rule for osteoporosis patients (honestly life involves some twisting and bending!) and that it would be a good exercise choice. I may try it; they offer a freebie but after that it is a bit pricey. I do aerobics with weights and walk (which I hate, so boroint!) and am up and down the stairs multiple times a day; sometimes up and down just for the exercise. May consider the Y as they have a lot of weight machines. Plus some PT exercises, balance exercises etc. Would love to hear stats on actual increases on DEXA from pilates.

Hi Debbik,
I have been taking special Pilates classes for the last 1.5 years. They are called Pilates for Buff Bones and are specifically for women with osteopenia or osteoporosis. These classes are led by a teacher who underwent comprehensive training, so she knows all the moves you shouldn't do with osteoporosis. My hips have improved by 3.1% and are now at -1. Unfortunately, my lumbar spine score continues to go down. I have become much stronger and more flexible since I have been taking these Pilates classes. I tried the Pilates Reformer with the same teacher, but that hurt my knees a lot. However, several classmates are doing weekly reformer sessions and love them.

I was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis 3 years ago. I did PT for almost 1 years and then went to an exercise studio which specializes in post-rehabilitation exercise. We do weight training one day and pilates reformer another day every week. It has greatly helped (along with Tymlos). My word of caution - don't do pilates in a large class where you are not being carefully observed. There are so many subtle corrections that a good instructor will make on your form - breathing, using core muscles, spine placement on the machine, lining up your hips. Etc. But along with weight training, the pilates has made me stronger and more confident living!

@flowers62
Where are you located to go to Pilates for Buff Bones?
I’m can’t even find a PT who can help recommend an osteoporosis specialist in exercising.

Hi meri8181,

I am in New York City and go to the JCC in Manhattan. There is an instructor who teaches in person Pilates for Buff Bones. She also does online classes, and I'd be happy to get the links for this if you want them. Personally, I don't find online as useful because she walks around in the class and corrects our postures, which is very helpful.

I also go to HSS (Hospital for Special Surgery) where they have PTs and exercise physiologists for strength training who are well versed in helping patients with osteoporosis. It's expensive, but I am allergic to almost all medications and have to try this route to help myself.