Articles

What is Pilates?

Pilates was developed in the early 1900’s by Joseph Pilates as a method of body conditioning. Pilates incorporates a large range of exercises that focus on core stabilization (ie. using the deep abdominal muscles and back muscles to improve stability of the trunk.) Pilates can be used by anyone, however not all pilates is beneficial for everyone and should be started with advice from a physiotherapist

Clinical Pilates

Evidence continues to be found as more research is done each year, and this guides physiotherapists with their choice of treatment. Pilates has been found to be a useful tool to use to improve core stability and safely exercise people with a variety of conditions. Clinical Pilates is the term used to describe pilates that has been updated according to current research findings to line up with Evidence Based Practice which is the basis for physiotherapy treatment.

Clinical Pilates is taught by experienced clinicians who have undergone further Clinical Pilates training. Physiotherapists have up to date knowledge of scientific research regarding core stability and exercise rehabilitation. They combine their physiotherapy knowledge of injuries and mechanics with that of Clinical Pilates to rehabilitate injured people safely and effectively.

Who is able to do Clinical Pilates?

At Body with Soul we offer classes for Prenatal, Postnatal and AllWomen.

Pre-Natal: From 12 weeks through to full term unless contraindications to exercises exist.

Post-Natal: From 6 weeks after delivery you may be able to start in the Post-Natal class to safely exercise your pelvic floor, core muscles, and the postural muscles needed to deal with the new demands of looking after your baby.

All Women: This class is called Core and Floor because it aims to strengthen your pelvic floor, and your core muscles! This class is for AllWomen because it is recommended that all women maximise the function of their pelvic floors, and because a class environment has shown to be most effective for long term strengthening since adherence to purely home exercises tends to be poor. It’s a fun class which will have you feeling stronger without aggravating any other issues.

**For all classes: A screening questionnaire will need to be filled in prior to being accepted into a class, and in some cases an individual asssessment will be required before joining the class. In some cases we will require written consent from your medical practitioner.

** The pilates studio at Body With Soul uses Exercise Balls, Resistance Bands and Mat Work.

How Often?

The question of how often should you do Clinical Pilates will depend on your individual needs and will be advised by the physiotherapist running your class.

For maximum strengthening effects it is recommended to do strength training three times per week. However, what we often recommend is that people attend one to two times per week in a class environment, and do one or two sessions of home exercise practicing what was learnt in the class. For some exercises, we will recommend daily practice. We will also discuss general exercise principles as they relate to the specific groups while exercising and give some education while you work out.

Robyn Lambert – Physiotherapist