Clinical Pilates is a form of rehabilitative exercise that aims to strengthen weaker muscles while lengthening ‘tighter’ or shortened muscles, increase joint stability, improve core stabilisation, and enhance overall flexibility. Exercises are performed on a variety of machines that use springs to provide smooth resistance.
Classes are usually small (maximum of 4 participants) or one on one, allowing the therapist to provide consistent feedback and modify individual programs as needed.
There are many misconceptions surrounding Pilates, and here are a few that are worth busting!
Pilates Is Only for Women
When some people imagine a ‘typical’ Pilates attendee, they may picture a Lululemon-clad woman who will be off to brunch as soon as the class ends. This stereotype has been developed perhaps due to the strong association between Pilates and pelvic floor strengthening, as well as the exercise being a safe form of movement for pre and post natal women.
Many people don’t realise that Pilates was originally created by a man (Joseph Pilates) during wartime to help rehabilitate bedridden soldiers. The Pilates technique has since been adapted to suit many different needs and is regularly implemented by elite athletes (including basketballer LeBron James) to enhance their performance.
Pilates Is All Core Work
While core strength is an important aspect of Clinical Pilates, there are so many more facets to it.
Pilates delivers a unique blend of strength and flexibility training, balance, and coordination work. This is achieved first by your Clinical Pilates practitioner conducting a thorough assessment at the start of your journey. They will then create an individualised program with your specific injuries and goals in mind to ensure you are getting exactly what you need!
Pilates Is Too Easy for Me, It’s Just Stretching!
This statement is usually made by someone who has never done Pilates before. While Pilates is different from other forms of exercise like running or weight training, it is actually a lot of hard work when performed correctly. Clinical Pilates can target specific muscle groups, including stabilising muscles for the spine, and incorporate compound movements to create a well rounded (and challenging) program.
Hopefully, this has cleared up some common misconceptions about Clinical Pilates. You can find out even more by chatting with our friendly physiotherapy team, who conduct our Clinical Exercise Classes, to learn how they can help you!
