Pilates for Hypermobility: Building Strength, Stability and Confidence
Living with hypermobility can present unique challenges, from joint instability and pain to fatigue and difficulty finding the right exercise routine. For those in Glasgow, Pilates offers a highly adaptable and transformative approach to managing hypermobility symptoms while building strength, stability, and confidence.
At Yellow Pilates, we work with hypermobile clients, offering personalised programmes tailored to your individual needs—whether through Private 1-to-1 Sessions, Studio Equipment classes or Mat Classes. Led by Michelle and supported by expert input from osteopath Annette Weir, we’re here to help you move safely and effectively toward better health and wellbeing.
What Is Hypermobility?
Hypermobility refers to joints that move beyond the typical range of motion, often due to genetic factors affecting connective tissues like collagen. While some people may live with hypermobility without significant issues, others may experience conditions like Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD). Symptoms can include:
Joint instability and frequent subluxations or dislocations
Chronic pain and muscular tension
Fatigue due to inefficient muscle recruitment
Difficulties with proprioception, or sensing where your body is in space
Hypermobility is also linked to neurodivergence, with conditions like ADHD and autism more commonly observed in hypermobile individuals. This makes a tailored, holistic approach to exercise all the more important.
Why Pilates Is Ideal for Hypermobility
Pilates is uniquely suited to individuals with hypermobility because of its emphasis on controlled, mindful movement. Unlike high-impact exercises that can place undue stress on unstable joints, Pilates focuses on gradually improving strength, stability, and body awareness in a safe and supportive environment.
Key Benefits of Pilates for Hypermobility:
Improved Joint Stability
Pilates exercises target the deep stabilising muscles around joints, helping to provide the support that hypermobile joints often lack. This gradual, controlled strengthening reduces the risk of overuse injuries or joint strain.Enhanced Proprioception
Many people with hypermobility struggle with proprioception. Pilates helps retrain your brain and body to work together more effectively, improving your balance, coordination, and sense of where your body is in space.Reduced Pain and Tension
By promoting proper alignment and efficient movement patterns, Pilates can alleviate chronic pain caused by muscle overcompensation and joint misalignment.Safe, Customisable Progression
Pilates meets you where you are, offering modifications and personalised programmes to match your current abilities while helping you progress safely.Focus on Breathing and Nervous System Regulation
Pilates incorporates breathing techniques that can calm the nervous system, addressing secondary challenges often associated with hypermobility, such as dysautonomia, POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), and post-exertional symptom exacerbation.
The Yellow Pilates Approach to Hypermobility in Glasgow
At Yellow Pilates, Michelle regularly works with hypermobile clients of varying degrees, helping them achieve meaningful changes in their strength, stability, and overall quality of life. She has seen firsthand the transformative impact Pilates can have, particularly when exercises are tailored to the unique challenges of hypermobility.
In Private 1-to-1 sessions or Studio Equipment classes, clients benefit from individualised programmes that focus on:
Gently building strength without overloading the joints
Addressing proprioception and neurological function as a foundation for progress
Adapting exercises to account for fatigue, neurodivergence, or other factors like POTS
Gradually increasing stability and control over time
Expert Support from Osteopath Annette Weir
We’re fortunate to share our space in Glasgow with Osteopath Annette Weir, who specialises in working with hypermobile individuals. Living with hypermobility herself, Annette understands the importance of a creative and highly individualised approach to managing symptoms. Her gentle osteopathic treatments, personalised rehabilitation exercises, and lifestyle management strategies complement the work we do in the studio.
Read our blog on Pilates & Neurodiversity
Hypermobility and Neurodiversity: A Unique Connection
Research shows a strong link between hypermobility and neurodiversity, with conditions like autism and ADHD more prevalent among those with hypermobility. This connection underscores the need for a flexible, patient-centred approach to exercise. At Yellow Pilates in Glasgow, we understand the importance of creating a supportive environment where both your body and mind can thrive.
Begin Your Hypermobility Journey with Pilates in Glasgow
Whether you’re new to exercise or have struggled to find an approach that works for you, Pilates at Yellow Pilates offers a safe, effective, and personalised way to manage hypermobility. With expert guidance from Michelle and Annette, you’ll gain the tools to improve your strength, stability, and quality of life—one step at a time.
Take the first step toward feeling stronger and more confident in your body.
Any questions - email Michelle at hello@yellowpilates.com or text 07751 818705
