Hip Replacement & Movement: Gentle Pilates for Mobility and Strength

After hip replacement surgery, many people want to regain mobility and confidence in movement. Pilates offers a safe and thoughtful environment for strengthening, improving alignment and restoring functional movement patterns.

What happens after hip replacement?

Common experiences:

• limited hip mobility

• tight muscles around pelvis and thigh

• difficulty with balance

• cautious movement or fear of twisting

• reduced strength due to inactivity before surgery

How Pilates supports post-rehab movement

Pilates can help by:

• improving hip mobility in safe ranges

• building glute strength

• restoring balance

• improving gait patterns

• teaching safe hip alignment in daily life

Pilates is slow, controlled and adaptable — ideal for building confidence.

Three gentle exercises

1. Supported Hip Circles

• On back, circle leg gently with knee bent.Why it helps: improves joint nourishment without strain.

2. Glute Activation (Side-Lying)

• Lift top leg a few centimetres.Why it helps: glutes stabilise the hip and pelvis.

3. Assisted Heel Slides

• Slide heel on floor, bending and straightening leg.Why it helps: improves range of motion.