The Markland Clinic

Pilates Classes

Sally Church, our specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapist, is also a qualified Pilates instructor.

Pilates is a form of exercise which is becoming increasingly popular. The technique utilises the core stability muscles (pelvic floor muscles and deep abdominal muscles) to stabilise the low back and pelvis before introducing graded arm and leg movements. Pilates focuses on correct movement pattern, core stability and postural awareness.

Activation of the back stability muscles before exercise means that Pilates is safe for people with a history or low back or pelvic pain. Indeed, Pilates is becoming increasingly recognised in the medical field as an effective regime to help prevent and rehabilitate back injuries.

Pilates is ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels and particularly beneficial for those who want to improve muscle tone and flexibility or people with

• back pain
• arthritis or joint pain
• rehabilitation needs
• pregnancy related back or pelvic pain

During pregnancy the weight of the growing baby weakens the pelvic floor and deep abdominal muscles (core stability muscles), Pilates is therefore an ideal form of exercise for antenatal and postnatal women. It will help to strengthen the core stability muscles, improve postural awareness and reduce the risk of pain.

If you wish to book for a course of Pilates please phone 0845 230 4228 and complete a Pilates Assessment Form.