Clinical Pilates 

What is Clinical Pilates?

Clinical Pilates adapts Joseph Pilates' original body-weight and spring based exercise method. It incorporates current knowledge of human anatomy, neuromuscular physiology, biomechanics and physical rehabilitation. 

Pilates uses equipment with springs that have different tension levels. These include the Pilates Reformer and Stability Chair. The main goals of Pilates programs are to improve strength and to gain mobility.

Clinical Pilates is a gentle, intelligent, mindful and whole-body form of exercise therapy. As a result, each exercise follows a set of principles. One key principle is breathing.

Each inheale and exhale is completed in three dimensions. Doing this activates the muscles of the rib cage. This keeps participants more mindful. It also engages the diaphragm and abdominal mucsles. 

Several factors influence exercise choice during Clinical Pilates appointments. These include your goals, your movement capacity and your health conditions.

What Are the Differences Between Private Clinical Pilates and Pilates Classes?

First, group classes have several participants, the divides the instructor's attention. Conversly, the focus is on you during private sessions. 

Second, group classes are usually preformatted. They are also often limited to one piece of Pilates equipment. We have access to the mat, Reformer and Stability Chair in private sessions. Third,  group classes are often fitness based, instead of focusing on rehabilitation. 

What Happens During Private Pilates sessions?

The first appointment includes an assessment. We discuss your health history, conduct a movement screen and set goals. There is also time for an introduction to the Pilates principles and some exercises.

Follow-up sessions begin with a check-in. This is to see what you have been doing since your last visit and to learn how you are feeling. Exercise choice, progression or regression depends on each day's initial conversation.

To book a Pilates session in East Vancouver with Alfred contact  C.A.T.C.H Physio and Wellness.

It is complimemtary to other therapies, like massage therapy, chiropractic and physiotherapy. 

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Why Choose Private Pilates with a Kinesiologist?

Clients take part in private Pilates because they get individual attention. So, the focus is on them, their health condition(s) and their abilities.

Alfred is a compassionate and attentive Kinesiologist. He has been treating clients since 1999. His an allied health professional with a 4 year degree in Human Kinetics.   Alfred has experience helping clients many different health conditions and injuries.

People choose Pilates for a variety of health, physical rehabilitation, and fitness goals.  

For Example:

What are the Differences Between the Pilates Reformer and Stability Chair?

The Pilates Reformer and Stability Chair are both pieces of specialized exercise equipment. They have similarities and differences.

How the Reformer and Stability Chair Are Similar

First, they both have several built-in springs. The springs assist with movement and provide resistance. These springs also have a variety of tension levels. For example, changing the spring tension switches exercise's focus between strength and stability. Thus, the exercise becomes easier or more difficult.  

Second, the Rehab Pilates Reformer and the Stability are both elevated. The Reformer has an elevated platform that makes it easier to transfer on and off it. The Chair's height can makes some exercises too difficult for people with knee pain

Third, some of the exercises on the Chair mimic daily activities. These include sitting and climbing stairs. Instead, the Reformer has a tower to assist with standing and other exercises.

How the Reformer and Stability Chair are Different

First, the gear bar on the Reformer adjusts the starting tension. It also as more springs and tension levels. There are only two types of springs on the Chair. They have different attachment points with many combinations to alter the challenge. 

Second, both have different accessories.  These include the mat converter, jump board, long/short box, straps and arc barrel for the Reformer. While, the main accessory on the chair are the adjustable handle bars. The long box is also used for some of the chair exercises, like the standing leg work. 

A third difference is the platform size.  The mat converter extends the Reformer, so a person can lie down on it.  Unlike the Reformer, the stability chair surface is the size of a large square seat which remains fixed.  As a result, you need more body-control to lie down it. 

Fourth, spine support is different between the two. On Reformer the spine supported more often. The spine has has less support on the Stability Chair. Thus, the back muscles do more work during the chair exercises. 

A fith key difference is the amount of knee flexion and extension in the footwork exercises. On the Reformer there is larger leg range of motion than on the chair. Last, the pedals on the chair be function together or one at a time.