A Little Background About Clinical Pilates

Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. While Joseph was working with the soldiers of WWI at the hospitals in England, he started to teach his own technique of exercise with minimal equipment. This form of exercise would later become known as Pilates. Joseph Pilates took his knowledge and experience with him when he emigrated to the USA post-WW1. He opened up “Joe’s Place” in New York where he continued to teach and advance exercise in the form of Pilates.

Pilates is a system of movements designed to look at posture and control.

Pilates challenges an individual’s deep stabilizing muscles to control movements while mobilizing other areas, focusing on core control. You may have seen pilates being performed on a fancy piece of equipment called a reformer, however, at WESTPRO our Clinical Pilates Instructor will teach you “Mat Pilates”.

What is the difference between Pilates and Clinical Pilates?

At WESTPRO Physiotherapy, Clinical Pilates is led by a Registered Physiotherapist who has been trained through the STOTT PILATES Rehab Program.

Clinical Pilates is used as a form of exercise rehabilitation.

During your Clinical Pilates session, the Physiotherapist will be evaluating and modifying each exercise in order to best suit your rehab needs. Posture education, scapular control, breathing techniques, core strength and stability will all be addressed with each segment of movements during your session. In order to engage the targeted muscle groups with each exercise and eliminate over-activating the problem areas, proper positioning is very important throughout your session.

What population is Clinical Pilates most beneficial for?

Clinical Pilates is used to treat a variety of conditions across multiple age groups. It can be very beneficial for conditions throughout many stages of recovery, as well as preventing injuries and maintaining your overall wellbeing. Your Physiotherapist is able to progress/regress your session based on your condition and exercise tolerance. Your Physiotherapist will also complete a thorough initial assessment to identify your concerns, goals and underlying injuries. Based on this assessment, a program will be individually designed and demonstrated to best fit your needs and help progress your rehab.

What should I expect at my first Clinical Pilates session?

Your Physiotherapist will spend the first session completing a thorough initial assessment. This will include taking a detailed history of your injuries and current goals, an explanation of Clinical Pilates and the basic principles. This subjective assessment will be followed by a complete objective assessment to identify your baselines, strength, range of motion and limitations. DO expect to be participating in some Pilates exercise during your first session. Comfy/loose fitting clothes and running/walking shoes are best for this appointment.

Not sure which treatment is right for you? Contact us today to talk to a professional and find out how we can help you.