After a serious injury that would have her shelve her favourite workout for at least a year, avid runner Faye James fell into a deep depression. But then she discovered Pilates, and her life changed.

Always learning new things, and staying busy with friends and favorite activities — is exactly what the experts say can help keep our thinking skills sharp. "Cognitive and social engagement have been shown to be protective against cognitive decline, whereas hearing loss, depression, and social isolation are associated with cognitive decline," says Dr. Kathryn Papp, a neuropsychologist and instructor in neurology at Harvard Medical School.

Are you guilty of thinking that Reformer Pilates is just for people who don’t like the gym or cardio, or that it’s the same as Yoga, or even perhaps that it’s only good for rehab? You’re not alone — and we need to put you back on the right track.