Pilates has certainly become a popular form of exercise over the past few decades, with classes being offered in Physiotherapy Clinics, fitness centres and Pilates Studios all over the country. It really has become a bit of a buzz word, associated with ‘improved core strength’ and ‘flexibility’, and is often promoted as a more gentle form of exercise which can help with rehab from injury. This however, is not always the case! Those of you who have tried Pilates will know that it can be quite a challenging form of exercise. So while these classes and programs may be fine for people who are unaffected by injury or pain, they are generally not suitable for those who are. It can be an excellent method of corrective exercise for conditioning the musculoskeletal system, but has its strength and weakness, like any other form of exercise.
A bit of background……
Many different methods of Pilates have developed over the past few decades- though the three main styles are the Repertory, the Modern and the Clinical.
Repertoryremains close the original teachings of the forefather of the Pilates movement- Joseph Pilates. It is used a lot with dancers and can also be seen in action in large group “Mat classes.”
The Modernmethod involves smaller groups of people and uses a variety of exercises and equipment, with close attention being paid to breathing, technique and precision.
The Clinical Pilates Methodis quite exciting and differs again from the other two methods. It is assessment and research based, tailored specifically to the individual and much more effective in achieving positive outcomes for those with musculoskeletal problems. The exercises and equipment are much the same, however the application is different. The exercises from the traditional Pilates repertoire are taken into a Clinical approach which is guided by the current evolving research into spinal stability and exercise prescription. This means that we are actually using Pilates as a treatment tool, rather than just as a form of exercise.
The formal stuff…
The Clinical Pilates program for Physiotherapists is formally accredited by the Australian Physiotherapy Association and the New Zealand College of Physiotherapy. It was developed and is taught by Physiotherapist Craig Phillips from DMA Clinical Pilates, and has a firm body of evidence behind it, which translates to great outcomes in the clinic. Our physiotherapists are trained in this method and are undergoing the accreditation process.
What next?
Make an appointment with a Physiotherapist! Your appointment will involve a thorough assessment of your condition to determine your suitability for a Clinical Pilates program, and if so, a program will be developed for you based on your clinical needs. You may continue on an individual basis or attend supervised sessions in a group setting as you progress.
