Unlocking Longevity: Marisa Dourado Martins on the Transformative Power of Classical Pilates for Seniors

One Pilates instructor who is at the forefront of this movement in Lisbon is Marisa Alves Dourado Martins, a distinguished Brazilian Pilates Instructor whose rich background in physical therapy and unwavering dedication to the classical method has made her an invaluable resource for individuals seeking to enhance their quality of life through movement.

Based in Cascais, Portugal, Marisa's journey into the world of physical rehabilitation and exercise began in her native Brazil. A graduate of President Antônio Carlos College (UNIPAC) with a degree in Physical Therapy in 2012, Marisa embarked on her professional career in Brazil, primarily dedicating her expertise to clinics in Minas Gerais. Her early work focused significantly on providing home care to clients, a crucial service for individuals with reduced mobility, where she honed her skills in tailoring therapeutic interventions to diverse patient needs.

Despite the fulfilling nature of her initial roles in physical therapy, Marisa harbored a persistent feeling of professional dissatisfaction, a subtle yearning for a deeper connection with her practice. This internal drive propelled her to explore various advanced training methodologies, eventually leading her to discover the Pilates method. Her passion for Pilates ignited after completing her first comprehensive training in 2014, a pivotal moment that reshaped her professional trajectory. This newfound dedication culminated in the opening of her own Pilates studio, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.

As an expert in the field, Marisa discovered there was a gap in the industry that was critical to the safety of her clients. Specifically, she found that many of her clients, especially elderly clients, had prior medical and surgical histories that they never discussed with their Pilates Instructors, which could lead to serious injury. With her background in physiotherapy and her extensive knowledge of the Pilates methodology, she was able to create her own original and highly beneficial assessment, in which she conducted in depth evaluations into each client’s physical capabilities and medical histories to provide the best care possible. This assessment is a novel approach in the industry, as it is not standard that has been implemented before. Marisa’s method not only improves client safety and outcomes but also sets a new professional standard, distinguishing her work from that of other practitioners.

In 2019, Marisa, driven by a desire to further her skills and expand her horizons, made the life-altering decision to relocate to Portugal with her family. This move facilitated her engagement with notable fitness institutions, where she continued to refine her teaching prowess and broaden her understanding of human movement, even undertaking training as a Personal Trainer. Today, Marisa is a revered Pilates Instructor at Cascais Classical Pilates, where she imparts her extensive knowledge and passion through private and small group classes, meticulously adapted to accommodate the varied ages and physical conditions of her clients. She has implemented her original postural assessment regime into each studio she has worked with, even providing training and webinars to other professionals in the field interested in improving their techniques and client results. Marisa is an extraordinary Pilates Instructor who has not only mastered the discipline, but also helped to further the industry.

Classical Pilates: A Return to the Source

When discussing her approach to the discipline, Marisa emphasizes her allegiance to the foundational principles laid down by its creator. "I practice and teach Classical Pilates," she explains, "which are faithful to the exclusive techniques created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1920s." Joseph Pilates, an innovator ahead of his time, initially coined his method "Contrology," a name that encapsulates its core philosophy.

This system, even then, was built upon six fundamental principles: center of strength (or powerhouse), concentration, precision, fluidity, breathing, and control. Marisa's commitment to these original tenets ensures that her students receive instruction rooted in the method's true essence, emphasizing mindful movement and deep connection between mind and body.

Pilates: An Ageless Practice

One of the most compelling aspects of Pilates, according to Marisa, is its universal applicability. "Pilates is suitable for all ages due to its adaptable nature and numerous physical and mental health benefits," she explains. The beauty of the method lies in its inherent customizability. Each exercise can be modified and scaled to meet individual needs, abilities, and even specific health conditions, making it a safe and remarkably effective form of exercise for virtually anyone, regardless of their current fitness level.

This adaptability is particularly crucial when considering populations with diverse physical capacities, such as seniors or those recovering from injuries.

Profound Benefits for the Golden Years

The aging process often brings with it a host of physiological changes that can impact independence and quality of life. Marisa highlights how the Pilates Method, especially when integrated with physiotherapeutic techniques tailored for geriatrics, becomes a cornerstone for promoting health and rehabilitation in older adults. She meticulously details the specific benefits that address common age-related challenges:

Improved Body Composition: As we age, there's a natural tendency to lose muscle mass and gain fat. Pilates, through its strength-building exercises, helps counteract this, fostering a healthier balance of muscle to fat.

Reduced Joint Pain: Gentle, controlled movements minimize impact on joints while improving their range of motion and strengthening surrounding supportive muscles, often alleviating chronic pain associated with conditions like arthritis.

Increased Muscle Mass and Strength: Pilates systematically works deep stabilizing muscles often neglected by other forms of exercise, leading to functional strength improvements that support daily activities.

Increased Bone Mineral Density: Weight-bearing exercises, even low-impact ones like Pilates, stimulate bone tissue, helping to slow bone density loss and potentially reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Improved Lung Function: Emphasis on controlled, deep breathing enhances respiratory capacity and efficiency, which can benefit overall vitality and endurance.

Improved Balance and Gait: The focus on core stability and controlled movements directly translates to better balance, reducing the risk of falls, a major concern for seniors. A more stable gait promotes confidence and mobility.

Prevention of Falls: Beyond balance, Pilates improves proprioception (the body's awareness in space) and reaction time, critical factors in preventing trips and stumbles.

Increased Aerobic Capacity: While not traditionally seen as an aerobic workout, the continuous flow of Classical Pilates can elevate heart rate and improve cardiovascular endurance over time.

Improved Flexibility and Peripheral Circulation: Lengthening and strengthening muscles, combined with dynamic movements, enhance flexibility and promote healthier blood flow throughout the body.

Increased Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem: The physical improvements and the mastery of challenging movements foster a profound sense of accomplishment and renewed confidence in one's physical capabilities.

Pilates: Cultivating a High Quality of Life in Old Age

Marisa further elaborates on how Pilates directly combats some of the most pervasive challenges of aging, ensuring a higher quality of life. "As we age, the human body loses bone density, which leads to the development of osteoarticular and muscular diseases, making the body more susceptible to falls and, consequently, fractures," she explains. This decline can severely limit independence and lead to a cascade of health issues.

"However, with Pilates, this problem can be alleviated," Marisa explains. "Pilates works on muscle strengthening from the inside out, improving mobility, flexibility, motor coordination, and balance." For seniors, whose joints often become stiffer and more fragile, this internal strengthening is paramount. It allows for smoother, more controlled movements, reducing strain and discomfort. Beyond the purely physical, Pilates also "improves concentration and breathing, promoting physical and mental well-being and relaxation." This holistic approach addresses not just the body's physical needs but also the mental and emotional aspects of aging, fostering a sense of calm and presence.

Embarking on Your Pilates Journey: Advice for Seniors

For seniors who are curious about Pilates but perhaps hesitant to take the first step, Marisa offers clear and encouraging advice. Her primary recommendation is to "find a classical Pilates studio with professionals trained in the original method and take a trial class." This initial experience allows individuals to genuinely understand the method's unique approach and feel its immediate effects on their bodies.

To underscore the transformative potential of Pilates, Marisa often references the profound words of its founder, Joseph Pilates: "Through Pilates, you first acquire complete control of your own body, and then, through proper practice of the exercises, you gradually and progressively achieve the natural rhythm and progression in all your subconscious activities. In 10 sessions, you will notice the difference; in 20 sessions, others will notice the difference; and in 30 sessions, you will have a new body." This powerful quote serves as a testament to the cumulative and noticeable benefits that consistent Pilates practice can yield.

Beyond the physical and mental advantages, Marisa also highlights an often-overlooked benefit: "Pilates classes can be a great opportunity to socialize and connect with others." This communal aspect adds another layer of enrichment, combating potential isolation and fostering a supportive environment where individuals can pursue their health goals alongside peers.

Marisa Alves Dourado Martins' dedication to Classical Pilates and her deep understanding of its profound benefits, particularly for the senior population, positions her as a leading advocate for healthy aging through mindful movement.

Her journey from Brazil to Portugal is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the method, and her work at Cascais Classical Pilates continues to empower individuals to embrace strength, balance, and vitality in every stage of life. As the global population ages, the principles taught by instructors like Marisa become increasingly vital, offering a pathway to not just longevity, but to a life lived with greater control, confidence, and joy.