Pilates

Pilates is being hailed as "the fastest growing exercise technique worldwide" with people worldwide committing to what is being termed a more "mindful" and "intelligent" exercise approach, developing strength and balance across a large spectrum of health and fitness levels.

Pilates is a mind body conditioning exercise program that targets the deep postural muscles of the abdomen and spine to improve overall central core stability and posture.

The medical world is now realising the benefits of the Pilates method for the prevention and rehabilitation of back injuries. In order to prevent a recurrence of back pain, it is essential to retrain the deep abdominal and spinal muscles.  Pilates focuses on building an efficient 'central core'. In Pilates, 'central core' refers to the Transversus Abdominus (TrA) muscle, multifidus, pelvic floor and diaphragm.

In Pilates, abdominal hollowing techniques are utilised to activate this central core. The 'Modified Pilates Rehabilitation Program©' also focuses on contraction of the pelvic floor to facilitate the TrA and multifidus muscles to contract, thus activating this central core. Pilates then challenges this central core by introducing graduated arm and leg movements and stretches.

Medical experts have provided substantial evidence on the importance of Pilates based exercise in the role of lumbar instability and the techniques used have been advocated to reduce the recurrence of low back pain and lumbar instability. Pilates provides patients with a method of exercise unique amongst other forms of exercise that focuses on correct movement: quality not quantity, core stabilisation and postural correction.

Pilates suits all ages and fitness levels and is particularly beneficially for those with back pain, poor postures, neurological conditions, mental health conditions, sports injuries, arthritis, stress related illness and before and after pregnancy.

By exercising regularly, Pilates can help to:

• Improve posture
• Increase muscle tone
• Improve balance
• Increase joint mobility
• Relieve stress and tension

What's included?
As part of our six-week Pilates package, you'll be invited for an individual assessment with a physiotherapist to review your current ability. You will then be able to join a Pilates class or continue with the physiotherapist on a one-to-one basis if that is more appropriate to your needs.

The class programme includes:

• Individual assessment with a physiotherapist
• Six weeks of Pilates classes
• Instruction by experienced Pilates trained physiotherapists who will provide individualised support
• Small group class format with a maximum of four people per class
• Tailored exercise programme
• Access to our gym and specialised equipment during your pilates session

Classes are held weekly with each class lasting an hour.

The price for a course of six Pilates sessions is £75.00.