Pilates - Fitness vs Clinical
Many people ask about Pilates, what it is and why it is useful, but what a lot of people don't know is there are two distinct types of Pilates - Clinical and Fitness. Why is knowing the difference between clinical and fitness Pilates is so important?
Pilates is something that has been around for decades, and throughout this time different types of pilates have emerged. This creates some misconceptions around the types of exercises, emphasis and overall outcomes with the classes. Some people write off pilates as a type of exercise becuase they were aggrivated from it - the questions is was it the right typeo of pilates for them.
What is Fitness Pilates?
Fitness Pilates is something that is generally run out of a gym based setting, is run in a large group and is more of a one size fits all approach. This may be good for people who are generally fit and don't have any injury issues. The instructors are generally personal trainers and are not focused on the individuals abilities, but the ablity of the class as a whole. It is a great fitness tool, but as a rehabilitation tool there are definitely better options.
What is Clinical Pilates?
Clinical Pilates is a more specific type of Pilates that has been designed by Physiotherapists and is beneficial in improving lumbar and pelvic control as well as assisting with muscular imbalances. Clinical Pilate's, due to the extensive training of the intructors, is aimed to improve muscle recruitment and imbalances to reduce pain. These exercises are done in functional positions and assist with strengthening and improving mobility though your body.
Clinical Pilates, unlike the fitness pilates, is specific to your situation, injury (if any) and exercises are associated with your goals that you would like to reach.
Clinical Pilates can assist with:
Back pain, spinal pain & sciatica*
Neck & shoulder pain*
Hip, knee and ankle pain and injuries*
Ante and post-natal health*
Arthritis, multiple sclerosis & neurological disorders*
Pre, post & failed surgical conditions*
Suitability for surgery*
Dance & sports injuries, assessment & conditioning*
If you haven't had a good experience with pilates in the past or you would like to try and keep the body that you have in the best shape possible, assist with preventing injuries and remain agile nimble and active into the future, find a clinical pilates centre near you.
