Pilates is a method of exercise developed
by German-born Joseph Pilates. In 1926, Joseph and Clara Pilates brought their
exercise system, originally called “Contology” to New York City. The Pilates
method is a physical movement program designed to stretch, strengthen and
balance the body. Pilates exercise focuses on postural symmetry, breath
control, abdominal strength, spine, pelvis and shoulder stabilization, muscular
flexibility, joint mobility and strengthening through the complete range of all
joints. Instead of isolating muscle groups, the whole body is trained,
integrating the upper and lower extremities with the trunk.
The guiding principles of the Pilates
method are whole body health, whole body commitment, and breath. (Pilates, 1945)
“Contology is the complete coordination
of body, mind and spirit. Through Contology you first purposefully acquire
complete control of your own body and then through proper repetition of its
exercises you gradually and progressively acquire the natural rhythm and
coordination associated with all your mental and subconscious activities.”
(Pilates, 1945)
Pilates has proven itself invaluable not
only as a physical fitness endeavour, but also as an important adjunct to
professional sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds.
Quoted from the Pilates Method Alliance
Benefits of Pilates
·
Increased spine mobility
·
Increased muscle flexibility
·
Improved muscular endurance
·
Improved posture
·
Improved body awareness
·
Improved bone density
·
Improved ability to contract core muscles
correctly
·
Improved pelvic control
·
Decreased lower back pain
·
Decreased muscle and joint pain
·
More energy and endurance, less stress
How does Pilates complement
Physiotherapy?
Pilates is the perfect partner for
physiotherapy. After seeing the physiotherapist for any acute injuries or
chronic injuries that you have never had diagnosed, it is up to you to take your
body health into your own hands. Pilates offers a method that will help you to
understand your body, learn how to use it and how to change faulty movement
patterns that have unconsciously changed over the years due to pain or just
everyday repetition.
In many circumstances, our pain is caused
because we are unconsciously moving in a way that is hurting our body. Pilates
teaches YOU to change your movement patterns, optimize your posture and create
efficient pain free positive movement.
FAQs
Q: I have a spinal injury and have
movement limitations, could I do it?
A: Pilates sessions are specific to your
body. Your workout can be modified according to your limitations and
contraindications, and you can still experience a great workout that can help
you achieve more freedom of movement. It is always recommended that you see one
of our physiotherapists before starting a Pilates program.
Q: Is there an age limit?
A: Pilates is for every age. You are
never too old, or too young to learn about your body. The Pilates equipment is
designed to help you achieve movement you never thought possible. We recommend
that people over 65 who have not been exercising regularly should meet with one
of our physios prior to starting Pilates.
Q: Do I have to see a physiotherapist
first?
A: It is not necessary to see a physio
first, however if you are experiencing acute pain, or have had any surgeries
that might affect your movement abilities, it is wise to see the physio first.
Q: It is covered through Private Health
Insurance?
A: You may be able to claim Pilates
through your Health Fund. Pilates is usually covered under a “Lifestyle” or
“Wellness” program and usually rebate approximately $100-$200 per year depending
on your cover. For further information ask the receptionist or contact your
fund.
You may also be able to claim Pilates
under your physiotherapy cover, if you arrange to have your classes monitored by
one of our physiotherapists – talk to our reception staff about this process.
Q: Why do I need an initial
consultation/assessment?
A: An initial consultation/assessment is
important to assess your physical condition, determine your own specific goals
for your Pilates sessions and allow a specialised program to be developed for
you. The initial consultation also gives you the individual time needed to
learn to correctly contract the muscles targeted in Pilates (deep stability
muscles). This can be challenging for people who haven’t utilised these
muscles. Also, as the equipment used in a Pilates studio is unfamiliar to most
people it is important for safety reasons to have a session familiarising you
with the equipment.
Q: What do I bring?
A: You should wear comfortable (but not
too baggy) clothes that will stretch when you move. Please bring fresh socks
and a small towel, and although water is supplied, we encourage you to bring
your own water bottle. We do sell specially designed Pilates socks (with grip)
for $15.
Q: How often should I attend classes?
A: Pilates sessions retrain your body to
move more efficiently and to recruit the correct muscles. The more often you
spend practising the correct movement patterns the greater the carry over effect
into your daily routine. You get changes attending once a week but will see
significant changes in the way your body feels and moves by attending twice to
three times a week.
Our Instructors
Our Pilates Instructors are all qualified
with internationally recognized schools of the Pilates method. They are
passionate about the teaching of body awareness and movement and come from
movement backgrounds such as dance and martial arts. Our instructors are
registered with the Pilates Alliance of Australasia and /or the Australian
Physiotherapy Association.
Fees
Casual
Equipment $35
Mat $20
Pre & Post Natal
Classes $15
Block of 5
Equipment $140
Mat $80
Pre & Post Natal
Classes $60
Block of 10
Equipment $280
Mat $160
Pre & Post Natal
Classes $120
3 Months Pilates Gym Membership
Choose any equipment or mat classes with
3mths *
Including a free assessment
$390
6 Months Pilates Gym Membership
Choose any equipment or mat classes with
6mths *
Including a free assessment
$590
12 Months Pilates Gym Membership
Choose any equipment or mat classes with
12mths *
Including a free assessment
$950
