Clinical Pilates vs. Traditional Pilates: What’s The Difference And Which One Is Right For You?
Since more than a century ago, Pilates has been a well-liked form of exercise. Traditional Pilates and Clinical Pilates are two variations of Pilates that have developed over time. They have different approaches, methods, and objectives, even though they both aim to increase core strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. In order to help you choose which type of Pilates is best for you, we will examine the main distinctions between clinical Pilates and traditional Pilates in this blog.
What Is Traditional Pilates?
Joseph Pilates created the traditional Pilates exercise program at the beginning of the 20th century. It emphasises the development of balance, flexibility, and strength through a series of deliberate movements. Pilates rings, foam rollers, and resistance bands are common props used in traditional Pilates exercises, which are typically performed on a mat.
Traditional Pilates exercises are created to work every muscle in the body, with a focus on the core. Clinical Pilates has recently become a popular alternative to traditional Pilates, which has been widely used for many years.
How Does Clinical Pilates Work?
A modified form of traditional Pilates called clinical Pilates is geared toward healing wounds and enhancing general health and fitness. Clinical Pilates, in contrast to traditional Pilates, was created specifically to be used in conjunction with physical therapy and rehabilitation. Traditional Pilates was initially created as a system of exercises for dancers.
The majority of clinical Pilates exercises are done on a mat or with specialised apparatus like a reformer, which uses springs to create resistance. The exercises concentrate on enhancing posture, flexibility, balance, and core strength. Clinical Pilates is a safe and efficient form of exercise for people with chronic pain or injuries because instructors are trained to modify exercises to accommodate a wide range of fitness levels and injuries.
Clinical Pilates has been shown to be useful in improving athletic performance, lowering the risk of injury, and enhancing general well-being in addition to its benefits for rehabilitation. It is a fantastic option for people of all ages and fitness levels because it is a very versatile form of exercise that can be tailored to meet the particular needs of each individual.
The Benefits Of Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates is a type of exercise that focuses on the principles of traditional Pilates but incorporates a more clinically-oriented approach. By targeting specific areas of the body, Clinical Pilates can help improve overall strength, flexibility, balance, and posture. Here are some of the key benefits of Clinical Pilates:
- Improved Core Strength: Clinical Pilates focuses on strengthening the muscles in the core, including the abs, back, and pelvic floor. This can help improve overall stability and balance, which can reduce the risk of injury.
- Increased Flexibility: Clinical Pilates incorporates stretching and mobilisation exercises that can help improve flexibility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic pain or stiffness.
- Improved Posture: Clinical Pilates can help improve alignment and posture by targeting the muscles that support the spine and other key areas of the body.
- Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: Because Clinical Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise, it can be an effective tool for injury prevention and rehabilitation. By targeting specific areas of the body, Clinical Pilates can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, which can reduce the risk of injury and promote faster recovery.
- Reduced Stress: Clinical Pilates incorporates breathing and relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.
Overall, Clinical Pilates is a safe and effective form of exercise that can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. Whether you are looking to improve your overall fitness, recover from an injury, or reduce stress, Clinical Pilates may be an excellent option for you.
Which One Is Right For You?
When deciding between traditional Pilates and clinical Pilates, there are a few factors to consider.
If you are a healthy individual looking for a general exercise program that focuses on strengthening your core and improving your flexibility, traditional Pilates may be a good fit for you. It can help improve your posture, reduce stress, and enhance your overall physical fitness.
On the other hand, if you have a specific injury or medical condition, or if you are looking for a more individualised approach to exercise, clinical Pilates may be a better choice. With its focus on rehabilitation and injury prevention, clinical Pilates is often recommended by healthcare professionals as a way to support recovery from injury or manage chronic conditions.
It’s important to note that both types of Pilates can be modified to suit your individual needs, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a qualified instructor to determine which approach is best for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose traditional Pilates or clinical Pilates, you can experience many benefits for your physical and mental health. Clinical Pilates offers a more personalised approach with a focus on rehabilitation, injury prevention, and mental health, while traditional Pilates focuses more on overall fitness and core strength.
At Upwell Health Collective, we offer both options to cater to your specific needs and goals. We have experienced and qualified instructors who can guide you through your Pilates journey and help you achieve your health and fitness goals. So why not book a session with us and experience the benefits of Pilates for yourself?
Please get in touch with us at Upwell Health at (03) 8849 9096 or book an appointment today.