FlowPilates and lymphedema
This is how FlowMat builds pilates classes for a student with lymphedema. They are the app's real rules, reviewed by a medical committee: what isn't recommended is never suggested, and what needs care comes with a warning for the teacher.
500 exercises in the catalog
Guidance for the class
Exercises FlowMat does not suggest
No exercise is ruled out for this condition: the care is in how each one is done. FlowMat suggests them with a warning and, when one exists, a gentler variation.
Exercises that come with a warning
Examples of exercises that do appear, with the guidance the teacher gets.
Avoid heavy weights and high repetitions; if your arm swells, stop and rest.
If you have lymphedema, use very light pressure and avoid rolling the affected area.
Use light weights and fewer reps, watching that the arm doesn't swell.
Use very light weights and reduce reps if the affected arm feels heavy.
If using the affected arm, choose very light weights and stop if swelling appears.
Use light weights and stop if you notice swelling in the arm.
Use gentle pressure and avoid lingering too long on the same spot.
Reduce pressure and avoid insisting on the area affected by lymphedema.
Avoid this release on the leg affected by lymphedema; do it only on the healthy side.
If you have arm lymphedema, ease the push and avoid gripping your hands tightly.
and 4 more in the app's catalog.
How the class is adjusted
- Reps and times at 80% of normal.
- 15 seconds of rest between exercises.
Frequently asked questions
Can you do pilates with lymphedema?
It depends on each person and on what their treating doctor says. FlowMat does not replace that judgment: it helps the teacher plan the class, avoiding what isn't recommended with lymphedema and flagging what needs care.
What does FlowMat do with exercises that are not recommended?
It never suggests them when building the class, and they don’t show up as a replacement when you swap an exercise either.
Can I change the class FlowMat builds?
Yes. You can swap, remove, add or reorder exercises and adjust the reps. The catalog only offers exercises that are safe for the student.