Optima
Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates

CLINICAL PILATES has been developed over the past decade by physiotherapists. It removes or modifies many of the Pure Pilates exercises to prevent the potentially harmful effect of loaded end of range work. Clinical Pilates emphasises 'control' of muscles rather than strength. Clinical Pilates begins with gentle exercise with body weight supported on various pieces of equipment. Sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic pain states, arthritis, as well as people recovering from back injuries and rehabilitation from surgery may find the program very beneficial. As you progress and improve you will find exercises that will challenge even highly conditioned individuals or athletes.

What can clinical pilates do for me?

The aim of Clinical Pilates is to progress from static stability into dynamic control. Clinical Pilates is appropriate for all our valued clients including Private, Work Cover and Department of Veteran Affairs.

Benefits of Clinical Pilates include:

• Increased flexibility
• Better posture and body awareness
• Increased core stability
• Injury prevention
• Improved athletic performance
• Lowered stress levels
• Customized exercises for all levels of clients. No impact
• Improved balance, coordination and circulation
• Identifying the cause of injury
• Research based approach

Clinical Pilates with Optima Sports Medicine

An individual assessment is essential so that we can assess posture and confirm any relevant past medical and health history. A detailed screening is then conducted that will look at general flexibility, core control and any previous injuries that may have an impact during a Pilates session. This is done to ensure that exercises are client specific and focus on your goals. You will also learn some basic principles so that you can practice before your group session.

If required, your physiotherapist can also show you the effect of Clinical Pilates on your 'core stability' muscles with the use of real-time ultrasound. We recommend two individual sessions to have a thorough assessment and to ensure exercises are done correctly and safely.

Once you and your physiotherapist are confident with your programme, small group classes consisting of 2 - 4 participants are recommended and last 60 minutes. Clients will be rotated from the 'Reformer', 'Trapeze Table' and mat-based exercises. If you desire, a Home Exercise component can be given to you to reinforce what you are doing during a session.