Benefits of Pilates

April 2025

Pilates was initially founded by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th Century. Initially called Contrology, this exercise method was devised so that it could be performed on a bed.

In 1926 Joseph moved to New York and Pilates was developed and attracted the Dance Community. Over the 20th Century Pilates became a popular form of exercise and has continued to be practiced worldwide.

As a physiotherapist, I can see the benefits of maintaining flexibility and strength in your body. I trained in teaching Pilates with the APPI (Australian Pilates and Physiotherapy Institute). Their approach, is grounded on evidence based practice and as they are health professionals like myself, the understanding of anatomical and biomechanical knowledge are utilised in every exercise/programme.

So what are the benefits?

• Mat work Pilates is accessible, with only a mat and your self needed.

• With only a mat needed, it can be done in many settings from home/gym as well as classes.

• Due to its accessibilty, it can be done with many populations from post injury as part of a rehabilitation/physiotherapy programme to dance and sport communities.

• Pilates is a mind, body exercise. Being mindful of how we move and connection can help focus on technique and performance. This helps with body awareness and proprioception.

• Pilates can help strengthen your body, work on balance and flexibility. It is a great exercise to help support other sports/programmes.

• Pilates helps strengthen your abdominals.

• The use of resistance equipment or weight bearing exercises such as four point kneeling can help with bone health.

If you would like to try Pilates or interested to find out more then please go to our services section for information on EM Pilates Classes.