WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GYM-BASED AND CLINICAL PILATES?
Clinical Pilates focuses on posture, core stability, balance, control, strength, flexibility, and breathing.
The practice of Clinical Pilates was developed by Joseph Clinical Pilates over 60 years ago. It was originally a dance/gymnast-based practice with a large focus on global muscle recruitment and end of range movements with strict dosages and order of repertoire. Nowadays this workout has been adapted for use as a rehabilitative tool by health professionals, and for fitness and wellbeing, practiced by both men and women.
There are two main types of Clinical Pilates, both with very different focuses; therefore it is important to differentiate between these.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Exercise is an evidence-based, highly individualised form of traditional Clinical Pilates which is practiced by physiotherapists and other trained therapists. At our clinic, each client receives a thorough assessment of their mobility, strength and movement patterns to develop a program which is specific to their needs. The programs are progressive and goal-based; therefore they are not only rehabilitative for injuries, but also for prevention of injuries, and sport performance.
With individual programs, your physio is able to target the multiple contributing factors to the injury or pain – in this case including thoracic mobility, posture, scapular control and cervical strength and endurance.
Your practice of Clinical Pilates with a physio will be held in a motivating, supervised and supportive environment which aids your performance and positive outcomes.
Gym or Mat-Based Pilates
Gym or mat-based Pilates, on the other hand, is a generalized fitness program presented by Pilates instructors, personal trainers, and the like, focusing on core strength and flexibility. This is the type of Pilates you may participate in at your local gym and tends to have larger class sizes. It is a great workout for the general fit population, and can be useful later down the track for those participating in Clinical Pilates.
Whilst it can be a great tool for a total mind and body workout, it is not specific enough for those with pain or pathology.
If you’re unsure of what type of Clinical Exercise will be best for you, please get in contact.
