Pilates

Pilates consists of a series of exercises which aims to strengthen the body, in particular the spine. Pilates has many benefits, some of which include:

  • Improved posture.

  • Pain relief – due to improved movement patterns and increased muscle strength and endurance.

  • Long term role in the prevention of recurrent spinal problems.

  • Improved breathing patterns, which ensure a reduction in muscle tension and therefore pain.

  • Improved body awareness.

  • Improved athletic performance – corrects muscle imbalances of specific sports and the associated overuse injuries.

In the clinic, we offer group Mat classes and individual Reformer sessions. Each individual has a “Pre-Pilates screen” which is carried out by one of the chartered physiotherapists, before you start a group class. This screening will ensure that you get the most out of your Pilates, as it will identify your areas of weakness and any abnormal movement patterns which could lead to pain and muscle weakness.

The physiotherapist will then correct you throughout the class in a more constructive and specific way. All of our classes have a clinical rehab emphasis – strong technique and correct movement patterns are essential. We include exercises that are beneficial for balance and co-ordination and strength, which would not be traditional Pilates exercises. These have a very important role in bone health, improvement of athletic performance and prevention of falls. It takes approximately 16 weeks to strengthen your postural/spinal system.

Reformer Pilates

We offer challenging 1 to 1 rehabilitation sessions on the Pilates reformer. The reformer is a machine that uses springs and pulleys to create resistance. It is particularly good at identifying strength and balance deficits and allows easy comparison between your right and left side. This is very beneficial if you have a history of long-standing pain and have developed lots of compensatory or bad movement habits.

Reformer Pilates works on core stabilisation, muscle endurance and strength, joint stability, balance, coordination and more. The reformer is a great piece of equipment, as it allows people with limited joint range of movement or injuries to do modified exercises and gradually increase load through the musculo-skeletal system. Tennis players, horse-riders, golfers and many others, find the Pilates sessions a particularly good way to correct asymmetries, whilst keeping the correct alignment and form. Your overall aim is to become pain free, symmetrical in your movement patterns and strength and enhance performance and function.