Clinical Pilates

Th powerful Pilates method has revolutionised the way Physiotherapists prevent and rehabilitate injuries. Clinical Pilates is a system of exercises that integrates the traditional Pilates Method with modern research into musculoskeletal dysfunction.  At Body Mind Wellness Physiocare we conduct two Matwork Pilates Classes on Monday nights at 5pm and 6pm run by our experienced Pilates-trained Physiotherapist, Marika Scicluna.

What is Clinical Pilates?

Pilates is based on the original Pilates method which was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20^th century. It is a form of exercise that focuses on breathing, control, alignment or posture, core strength/stability, balance, flexibility, and flow of movement.  Clinical Pilates is used for patient-specific treatment after an injury or surgery. It differs from Pilates because it takes into account an individual's specific injuries and physical needs.

Every person’s biomechanics and movement patterning are all slightly different. All sports and work require different skills and muscle activation. When it comes to injury prevention and skill development every persons needs are slightly different. Clinical Pilates is individual or small group Pilates with a physiotherapist. Marika conducts individual sessions during her clinical consulting hours but also runs two Group Matwork Pilates Classes on Mondays at 5pm and 6pm.

Marika is an accredited Polestar Pilates Instructor, with more than 10 years of experience in Clinical Rehabilitative Pilates.  She is trained in Matwork and Equipment Pilates and uses a repertoire of exercises involving Pilates props such as the Pilates Ring, the Chi Ball, the Foam Roller, Theraband and most recently the Oov.

How do Clinical Pilates exercises work?

With pilates you train the deep core muscles, which are comprised of the pelvic floor, the transversus abdmonius, the multifidus and the diaphragm muscles. The focus of pilates is on breathing, control, flow and especially your technique and we will make sure that you are performing the exercises correctly. With that you can recover from your condition as soon as possible. Pilates exercises are aimed at the appropriate level for you and your pain and are progressed when possible and tolerated.

How do I know if I'm working the Core Muscles correctly?

Marika, a Pilates-Trained Physiotherapist can use Real-Time Ultrasound Machine to assess your core muscle activation. This can be used with any of our clients wishing to ascertain efficient and effective activation of core muscles and those who suffer with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction.

This can be performed during a standard physiotherapy consultation with Marika and is claimable under your private health insurance with physiotherapy extras. During the scan, the ultrasound probe will be held against your abdominal skin, using some gel to assist skin contact and imaging.

You will view images of your muscles working while you perform gentle exercises. Once you’ve mastered the exercises with real-time ultrasound, you can use the same muscle actions throughout your exercise program. This will provide you with the confidence that you are working the right muscles in the correct way, which will enable you to get more out of every Pilates workout session. You can call the clinic or email to make an appointment for a real time ultrasound assessment. To read more about Real Time Ultrasound Assessment click HERE.

In the matwork classes a mix of specialised equipment is used including Pilates Circles, fit balls, foam rollers, chi balls, the Oov, theraband and more. This equipment is designed specifically for clinical Pilates, promoting correct technique, appropriate resistance levels, and targeted exercises so you can really work your key areas and see results.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?

Please bring a water bottle and a towel. We are also recommending that all class attendees purchase (and bring with them to each class) their own mat, roller and theraband/loops to reduce risks for all (especially during this pandemic).

We can order these items for you from our supplier at the following prices:
• Pilates Gym Mat $20.00 or $50 (thicker denser mat)
• Pilates Foam Roller $25 or $55 (denser foam)
• Actipro loop $5 or theraband $8 per metre.

However if you are trialling, the classes please feel free to use our equipment in the interim. We have a supply of all of the above equipment for class participants to borrow for the classes and we will continue sanitising equipment and mats with antiseptic wipes.

What are the fees and do I need to book?

Pilates classes are still not claimable through your private health fund due to the rigid rules and requirements for this. Therefore the following fees continue to apply:

Pilates - Casual Class $30.00

Block of 5 $125.00 ($25 per class)
Block of 10 $220.00 ($22 per class)
Block of 20 $400.00 ($20 per class)

You will need book into our classes by calling on 8353 6233 or emailing us at admin@bmwphysio.com.au. Class numbers are limited to ensure each participant receives individual instruction and monitoring.

If you are new to the class, and not a curent client of our clinic, you will require an Initial Physiotherapy Assessment with Marika.  This is claimable through your health fund under a PT500 Initial Physiotherapy Consult Code. At this consult Marika will assess your physical condition and any pre-existing injuries.  This will also allow Marika the chance to ensure you are engaging your core correctly and ensure you are familiar with the Pilates repertoire.  If you are new to Pilates, she will ensure you are confident and safe to commence participation in group Pilates Classes with our clinic.