By Robbie France – Physiotherapist
What is Clinical Pilates?
Clinical Pilates is a method of exercise designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body by lengthening and firming muscles, therefore assisting the body during day-to-day activities. The focus is based on posture, core stability, balance, control, strength, flexibility, and breathing. It is used in conjunction with physiotherapy as a means of treating a variety of injuries (back, neck, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle pain).
What are the Pilates principles?
- Concentration: focus on slow and correct performance of each exercise and the specific muscles involved
- Alignment: focus on achieving neutral spine and activating the core stabilising muscles
- Control: maintain optimal posture and control with all movements
- Flow: work smoothly and efficiently with all movements
- Precision: perform each exercise with attention to detail to ensure correct technique
- Breathing: maintain relaxed, normal and regular breathing throughout all exercises
How does the equipment work?
The reformer Pilates bed is made up of a rectangular platform with a carriage, springs, ropes and a modern hydraulics mechanism to create resistance against movement. The moving carriage works with interchangeable resistance so it is possible to increase and decrease the level of difficulty with each exercise.
What are the benefits?
- Improved posture and core stability
- Increased strength and flexibility
- Prevention of work and sport related injuries
- Assisting rehabilitation
- Increased co-ordination and control
- Improved overall body tone and fitness
- Improved balance
Is it for me?
Pilates is for everyone, whether you are rehabilitating an injury or interested in improving the way you look, feel and move. Pilates will benefit those who have never exercised before as well as those who always have and always will.
What should I bring and how many are in the class?
As you will be working up a sweat in our classes we recommend all our clients to wear suitable gym attire as well as a towel and water bottle. Pilates grip socks are compulsory for health and safety and available to purchase on the day. Our classes are kept between 2-4 people to ensure close attention by our physiotherapists.
How often do I need to attend?
To notice the benefits of Pilates it is often recommended to attend two classes each week. However, this depends on the individual and will be discussed with the physiotherapist.