Discover the life-changing benefits of clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates has emerged as a leading method for physical transformation, especially in Melbourne. When it comes to issues with core and pelvic stability, the go-to solution is often Clinical Pilates. But what makes this core-strengthening approach so effective and popular in Australia?
What sets Clinical Pilates apart?
Clinical Pilates (at least the initial approach) was developed by Melbourne based physiotherapist Craig Phillips. Clinical Pilates combines the classic Pilates system with modern physiotherapy knowledge. This unique blend ensures exercises are not only effective but also tailored to individual needs and goals.
In an interview for “The Confident Body Show” podcast, Craig described being exposed to Pilates when he was a professional dancer with the Australian Ballet. He realised that while the exercises were beneficial, they needed the additional input of physiotherapy knowledge to become truly effective and individualised.
Since its inception in the 1990s, Clinical Pilates has evolved significantly. The system and equipment are excellent, but as medical and physiotherapy knowledge has advanced over the past 35 years, these insights have been integrated into Pilates exercises. This ensures that each exercise brings clients closer to their goals, rather than merely performing “Instagram-worthy” Pilates moves that may not be effective for everyone.
The science-backed power of Clinical Pilates
Over time, there has now been more and more, scientific evidence on the quality of Pilates in improving people’s lives, with the following examples:
- Significant effect on posture and spinal deformity: In a recent systematic review published in BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation in February 2024 by researchers Fangyi Li and colleagues found that Pilates significantly impacts mid-back posture, upper body posture, and lower back curvature.
- Benefits in women’s health: Another systematic review by Afsha Parveen and colleagues highlighted multiple benefits of Pilates for women, including reduced pain and disability, improved strength and flexibility, and positive effects on blood glucose and HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetic women.
- Effective in reducing pain and improving function in over 50’s: A systematic review have shown Clinical Pilates to be safe and effective in reducing back and neck pain, knee arthritis, and osteoporosis, particularly when done in supervised classes.
Personalised care and expert guidance through Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates stands out for its emphasis on personalized care and clinical guidance A good program should be supervised and delivered by a qualified health professional, such as a physiotherapist, accredited exercise physiologist, or osteopath. Why?
Because a qualified health professional can customise a program to address your specific injuries or weaknesses. The following should be standard components of your program:
- Initial and ongoing assessment: Your progress is continually monitored to ensure your program adapts as you improve.
- Customised exercise plan: A personalised exercise plan tailored to your goals.
- Progress tracking: Your instructor will closely monitor your form and technique, maximising therapeutic benefits and minimising injury risk.
Beyond rehabilitation: Clinical Pilates for long-term well-being
Many people start Clinical Pilates to address a specific injury or issue, but they quickly experience the long-term benefits and choose to continue.
Once initial issues are addressed, a good Clinical Pilates program should progress towards achieving long-term goals, such as:
- Long-term fitness and muscle strength
- Preparation for sporting events, such as getting ready for a half-marathon or hiking overseas.
- Coping with life’s challenges, such as bike riding, playing with kids, or managing everyday activities with ease.
References:
Denham-Jones, L., Gaskell, L., Spence, N., & Pigott, T. (2022). A systematic review of the effectiveness of Pilates on pain, disability, physical function, and quality of life in older adults with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Musculoskeletal Care, 20(1), 10-30. https://doi.org/10.1002/msc.1563
Li, F., Omar Dev, R.D., Soh, K.G. et al. Effects of Pilates exercises on spine deformities and posture: a systematic review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 16, 55 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-024-00843-3
Parveen, A., Kalra, S., & Jain, S. (2023). Effects of Pilates on health and well-being of women: A systematic review. Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy, 28(1), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s43161-023-00128-9
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