Training & Nutrition - Pilates anyone?

I've broken both hips (avulsion fractures when I was 15) and my hips are just not the same. Pushing them past their limits seem the only way to strengthen them, I'm doing rigerous ab excercises and have added some excercises that are under the categories of pilates. I do planks, and side bridges for each 1 min and 30 seconds without rest then the ab workout. Does anyone use pilates for their training? If so what kinds of things do you focus on and how well has it worked?

Mat Pilates is great for people with sub-optimal core strength (like me) or folks with structural issues (like you). If you're already a pro-level rider, probably not necessary.

I like a combination of yoga and Pilates (the famous OC "Yoga-lates"). Yoga for flexibility, and Pilates for strength. But be careful. Pilates has a number of moves that can really hurt your back. If you have any pre-existing back problems, or just weakness, either avoid if straining, or use small, squishey ball under small of your back. Good instructors in both disciplines are really helpful in developing correct (beneficial) form and avoiding injury.

I've not done the Pilates with machines. I'm not that fit, and sessions are very expensive.

Good luck!

I'm getting books on them. I'm very strong I'm 165 lbs and lets just give an example of my strength. today I did biceps and triceps. Bicep curls with the ez bar the first set was 75 lbs for 10 second was 85 lbs for 8 and the third was 85 lbs for 10. Then triceps was 85 lbs and 10 reps, second set was 95 lbs for 10 reps and same with the last set. Trust me I know my strengths and weaknesses. I'm just wondering who uses pilates.