What is Clinical Pilates?
The original Pilates method was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It is a form of exercise that focuses on correct posture, core stability, balance, control, strength, flexibility, and breathing. Our treating Physiotherapist Jemma Lekkas has been trained in DMA Clinical Pilates.
DMA Clinical Pilates was founded by Craig Phillips in 1988 as a result of finding positive connections between Pilates exercises and spinal stability research. He had previously noticed that as many patients were progressing from physiotherapy programs to gym workouts their original symptoms were becoming aggravated. Pilates based exercise, he found, seemed to better fit the needs of his clients, particularly when retraining and optimising the recruitment of the deep stabilising muscles needed to assist in treating low back pain and neck pain.
Is there a difference between normal Pilates and Clinical Pilates?
While both types may use either equipment or mat work, there are several importance differences between the styles.
Pilates
Gym instructors often run standard Pilates classes. The classes will always be non-specific, and the exercises will not be tailored to meet the specific needs of the client.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates differs from Pilates because it takes into account an individual’s specific injuries and physical needs, instead of having every person work in the same way. Jemma, our Physiotherapist, has expert knowledge and training in physiotherapy, meaning that she is able to assess you for which specific Pilates exercises suits you best, as well as having the knowledge to modify the program when required. This is particularly important for anyone with a history of injuries, as certain exercises may aggravate particular conditions
This additional clinical knowledge means that patients will also undergo a clinical assessment prior to beginning any classes. From there, they will be told exactly where their problem areas are, given a diagnosis and treatment if required, and shown exactly what exercises they need to focus on in order to improve those issues. Clinical Pilates offers a personalisation that isn’t available with standard Pilates.
Working with a Physiotherapist will also mean you may be able to claim Clinical Pilates through your private health cover. (Check with your Provider)
Who can do clinical Pilates?
It is appropriate for all age groups, genders, abilities, fitness levels, from kids, to pregnant women and the elderly.
As the exercises are tailored to the individual, Jemma can make your program as challenging or gentle as it needs to be to achieve the best outcomes for you.
You don’t need to have an injury to attend, many clients come to keep fit and healthy, enjoying the personalized attention that a small class size allows. It gives them the peace of mind to know that they are performing the exercises correctly under supervision.
People who would benefit from clinical Pilates:
Lower back, neck or shoulder pain
Pelvic or hip pain
Athletes looking to improve their technique e.g. golfers, gymnasts, dancers, runners
Post orthopedic surgery
Pre and post-natal
Pelvic Floor training, pre and post-natal
Postural and flexibility issues
General conditioning, toning and fitness
For more info regarding timetables and fees, see here.
To make a booking, book here.