What is Pilates and how can it Benefit Me?
Pilates is quickly becoming a popular form of exercise throughout not only Perth’s metropolitan area, but Australia as a whole. Those thinking that it is a new exercise fad whose popularity will fade before long are misinformed.
The Pilates method was first established by Joseph Pilates in the late 1920’s and its current prominence in the exercise and rehabilitation industries demonstrate the effectiveness of the method. Joseph Pilates’ unique exercise philosophy integrates mind and body by bringing attention the quality of movement during exercise and everyday life. There are six traditional Pilates principles that are the key focus of the exercise:
Centring
Concentration
Control
Precision
Flow
Breathing
Incorporating these principles emphasises the quality of movement rather than encouraging mindless repetition. The idea is not to work against maximal resistance, but rather to control movement throughout range without pain or strain. It is a comprehensive mind-body conditioning exercise which co-ordinates core stabilising exercise with mind and breath control, challenging by flowing movement of the whole body. This combination of core body exercise and breath control facilitates activation of deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles which isn’t seen with alternative methods of exercise rehabilitation. Exercise is performed on the floor, (known as mat work), or by use of spring loaded resistance apparatus where individuals perform fully integrated movements of the spine with the extremities.
Who can benefit from Pilates?
People of all ages and fitness levels can participate in Pilates classes. Research supports the idea that regular participation in Pilates improves core stability, flexibility, strength, co-ordination, balance, breathing and posture. Pilates enhances the recovery process for common orthopaedic injuries and conditions such as disc herniations, spondylolisthesis, lower back pain and scoliosis. It can also be beneficial for rehabilitation of joints post-surgery – (e.g. knee or hip replacement), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair, shoulder joint repair or reconstruction. The Pilates method can restore range of movement and strength in a safe, non-weight bearing environment to reduce pain and improve functionality, allowing faster return to pre-injury activity. Additionally, Pilates is a form of exercise rehabilitation which can be incorporated into a treatment plan for chronic diseases such as arthritis, and osteoporosis, and is an ideal form of exercise for pre- and post-natal women.
At our Canning Vale clinic, we have an Accredited Exercise Physiologist who is a trained Pilates instructor. As an allied health professional, private health fund rebates are available if you are covered for this services. Pilates is offered in an individual or group setting depending on individual needs and preferences.
Please click the BOOK NOW button below or call 6162 2616 to make an appointment today.
References
Bryan, M., and S. Hawson. 2003. “The Benefits of Pilates in Orthopaedic Rehabilitation.” Techniques in Orthopaedics 18(1): 126 – 129.
Latey, P. 2001. “The Pilates method: history and philosophy.” Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 5(4): 275 – 282.
Phrompaet, S., Paungmali A., and U. Pirunsan. 2011. “Effects of Pilates Training on Lumbo-Pelvic Stability and Flexibility.” Asian Journal of Sports Medicine 2(1): 16 – 22.
Wells, C., Kolt G. S., and A. Bialocerkowski. 2012. “Defining Pilates exercise: A systematic review.”Complementary Therapies in Medicine 20: 253 – 262.
