What Is Clinical Pilates?
Clinical Pilates Perth is a form of exercise used by physiotherapists to help treat a wide range of conditions such as chronic pain, hypermobility, injuries, pregnancy and lower back pain. Clinical Pilates differs from regular Pilates as it is more specific to the patient’s needs, and is prescribed by a qualified physiotherapist.
Clinical Pilates is an individual form of exercise used as a one on one treatment at Integrity Physiotherapy. Compared to clinical Pilates, traditional Pilates is conducted by an instructor to a class which is not always targeted at the specific needs of each person. Clinical Pilates Perth often uses reformer Pilates as part of your one on one treatment plan.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is similar to traditional mat Pilates in that it shares the principles of breath control, flow, concentration, strength and centring. The main difference is that reformer Pilates uses a reformer machine or bed. The reformer machine was designed by Joseph Pilates (the developer of Pilates) in the 1920’s.
So, What Is A Reformer Machine I Hear You Ask?
Reformer machines or reformer beds are specifically designed with pulleys and springs to provide resistance. They are used to help you build strength, flexibility, target muscle groups and become more mobile. Reformer machines provide a full body workout in a dynamic and balanced way.
Reformer Pilates allows you to perform more exercises compared to mat Pilates in many positions. Reformer Pilates is perfect for posture, balance, flexibility, strength and endurance building. It can be used to target one area of the body, or as a whole-body form of exercise.
During A Reformer Pilates Class, you will be instructed by your physiotherapist to perform a range of exercises using the pulleys or foot bar. You may also incorporate these with other accessories as needed such as Pilates rings, weights, resistance bands and shoulder blocks. You may perform exercises in a variety of positions such as sitting, lying down and standing. However, the techniques prescribed will depend on your specific needs.
Your Physiotherapist Will Gently Guide You Through Your Routine.
Learn more about Reformer Pilates/Clinical Exercise
How can clinical pilates work for you? Find out everything you need to know.
Generally mat Pilates works on your stomach, legs and back muscles. Mat Pilates uses body weight exercises while reformer Pilates uses resistance with weighted pulleys and springs which can be adjusted to the intensity needed. One similarity between the two is the focus on your breath. Both mat and reformer Pilates use slow, deep breathing, which promotes relaxation and increases the circulation of oxygen throughout the body.
Reformer Pilates provides many benefits and can lead to increased strength, flexibility, movement and improved posture and balance. Some of the benefits include:
- A well balanced full body workout
- Tones muscles
- Builds strength
- Low impact – particularly for those in recovery
- Better posture and strong core strength
