What is Pilates?

Pilates is an exercise system that focuses on stretching and strengthening the whole body to improve balance, muscle-strength, flexibility and posture.

It was created by German-born Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s and incorporates elements of yoga, martial arts and Western forms of exercise.

Initially adopted by professional dancers in the US as an effective form of recovery after injury, Pilates has steadily grown in popularity around the world, and includes celebrity fans such as Madonna and Jennifer Aniston.

What are the health benefits of Pilates?

There are many reports on the health benefits of Pilates. However, few of these have been subjected to rigorous scientific examination and there's a need for more research in this area.

However, anecdotal evidence says Pilates can help improve posture, muscle tone and flexibility, core strength and joint mobility, as well as relieve stress and tension.

Can Pilates help reduce back pain?

There's some evidence that Pilates can provide pain relief to people with non-specific lower back pain. For the exercises to be effective, they need to be tailored to the individual and taught by a qualified teacher.

Pilates sessions at PhysioNeeds East Bridgford

Unfortunately we do not have the space to offer mat work Pilates classes at PhysioNeeds East Bridgford. However, we do use Pilates based exercises within our rehabilitation programs on a daily basis and we can offer specifically tailored 1:1 mat work sessions on request.

How long are the 1:1 training session?

They last for 60 minutes.

How much do they cost?

£45 for the 60 mins session.

Am I too old for Pilates?

No. Pilates is suitable for people of all ages and can be easily modified to offer either a more vigorous or gentle workout tailored to meet each individual’s needs and capabilities.

Do I have to be fit to do Pilates?

No. Pilates is suitable for people of all levels of fitness. Practitioners say it's a more gentle way of raising your activity levels, especially if you have poor mobility, aches and pains or an injury.
However, before starting any exercise programme it’s advisable to seek advice from your GP or a health professional if you have any health concerns, such as a health condition or an injury.