Pilates is a form of body conditioning exercise, originally founded by German born Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It focuses on the strengthening of core postural muscles and stretching movements using breathing techniques. It is low impact and of an holistic nature, applying precise gentle movements. It was initially adopted by professional ballet dancers in the United States as a form of rehabilitation from injury, and has steadily spread and grown in popularity internationally. Well known people who practise Pilates include Tiger Woods and Madonna.
What are the benefits and principles of Pilates?
Pilates can improve posture, balance, muscle strength, flexibility, quality of movement and body awareness. This is why it is perfect within a physiotherapy setting.
The principles of Pilates are:
- Relaxation, Concentration Alignment, Centering, Breathing,
- Co-ordination, Flowing Movements, and finally Stamina
Who is it suitable for?
Pilates is recommended for everyone. It is suitable for all fitness capabilities, ages and gender.
There is scientific evidence that it reduces back pain in people with non specific lower back pain (NSLBP). It is very useful for women postnatally, for scoliosis, neck pain, sports people, including post injury, post operatively, etc. Most importantly it can be used in achieving goals in collaboration with physiotherapy/osteopathy treatment and massage therapy.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates or modified Pilates is a modification of the classical Pilates exercise which have been developed in collaboration with physiotherapists and osteopaths, to ensure that they are safe for the average person and in keeping with modern research findings. Aims are set at the beginning of the first session of Pilates.
Pilates at Redbourn Physiotherapy
Redbourn Physiotherapy Clinic offers matwork Pilates, in the form of small classes and 1:1 sessions.