Clinical Pilates

Why should you do pilates at a Physical Therapy clinic?

Pilates is a form of exercise, usually led by a Pilates instructor. Because Doctors of Physical Therapy have extensive knowledge of the body and are experts at making adjustments to meet individual needs, Pilates at a physical therapy clinic allows you to gain deeper knowledge on how to make Pilates work for you. At On the Move, our Pilates teachers are physical therapists, or they are nationally certified pilates teachers who are trained and mentored by physical therapists.

What is Pilates?

A little history - Pilates was originally developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates who called his methodology “Contrology.” His method was originally taught to people who were interned and hospitalized in England. However, when he emigrated to the US, his method became very popular amongst dancers in New York City. Since Joseph Pilates started the Pilates Method, his exercises have evolved through the teachings of various training centers.

Pilates is like a moving meditation that strengthens and lengthens. It teaches you how to move more efficiently so you can better participate in your life activities - whether that's running, running a business, or running errands.

What are the benefits of Pilates?

Pilates offers many benefits, including:

  • Improved core strength and stability: Pilates focuses on building core strength and stability, which can help improve posture, balance, and overall fitness.

  • Increased flexibility: Pilates exercises are designed to strengthen as you lengthen which can help improve flexibility and range of motion.

  • Reduced stress and tension: Pilates emphasizes thoughtful movements and deep breathing which can help reduce stress and improve your mind-body connection.

  • Low-impact workout: Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise, making it a good form of for people with injuries or chronic pain. Pilates is a also a favorite cross training exercise for competitive athletes and dancers.

  • Better Balance and Coordination: Pilates helps improve balance and coordination by challenging the body's ability to control movement in different planes of motion.

What are Pilates exercises like?

Pilates exercises use body alignment to optimize control, breath to facilitate deep core engagement, and thoughtful sequencing of exercises. 

At On The Move, we strive to create a positive movement experience that makes you feel stronger, more energized, and have an improved sense of mind-body connection. 

Pilates can be slow and relaxing, or challenging and dynamic.  

Pilates exercises can be done on a mat as well as on pilates equipment. At On the Move we have pilates reformers, trapeze tables, core aligns, wunda and multi-chairs, a ladder barrel, and various specialized pieces of equipment that specifically address the needs of athletes and dancers. 

Mat pilates group class Belmont, CA

What kind of Pilates equipment do we have?

It’s OK if you don’t know what this equipment is or how to use it. That’s what our trained physical therapists can help you with during your first session. Book here for your Pilates Initial Evaluation and Session.