Pilates is a system of exercises created in the early 1920’s by Joseph Pilates. It focuses on strengthening the “powerhouse”- the deep postural muscles of the abdomen, back and pelvis- to improve posture, flexibility, tone and overall fitness. The main principle of the method is that controlled, focused movements help establish a sound mind-body connection, ultimately leading to a more resilient and balanced mind.
Pilates is for everybody and every body -men and women, young or old, fit or unfit. It offers all the benefits of a low impact form of exercise, including improved muscle tone, increased metabolism and bone density, and reduced stress and tension. Its unique features are what makes the Pilates method so successful and effective in our modern lives.
Through specific low impact exercises focused on gentle strengthening, pelvic floor engagement, and pelvic stabilisation, Pilates can help reduce the risk of common pregnancy-related conditions such as back pain, Diastasis Recti (separation of the abdominal muscles) and Pelvic Girdle Pain.
It combines flexibility and strength training with enhanced body and mind awareness, offering numerous benefits throughout pregnancy - such as reduced back and shoulder pain, support in maintaining a healthy weight, full-body conditioning, and improved pelvic stability and balance.
However, before starting any Pilates exercises during pregnancy, it is essential to consult your doctor and work out with a qualified pre- and postnatal instructor.
At Happydemic Pilates you’re in safe hands!
A tailored postnatal Pilates programme can also help restore healthy pelvic floor function. While issues such as incontinence and a feeling of heaviness are common after childbirth, but should not be accepted as a normal part of being a mum.
Please ensure you consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning any physical activity during pregnancy and after giving birth.
Pilates can significantly improve overall back strength, mobility, pelvic stability, and flexibility. It also helps to correct postural asymmetries which can otherwise lead to injury, pain or aggravate wear and tear on the body.
When back pain has specific causes and requires a more personalised approach, one to one sessions can provide more targeted and effective results. Exercises are tailored to your individual needs and adapted to your specific condition.
For clients dealing with chronic pain, arthritis or osteoporosis, Pilates can:
Significantly reduce discomfort and unwanted pain
Improve joint function and reduce stiffness by enhancing joint lubrication (reducing friction)
Help relieve chronic pain caused by conditions such as Fibromyalgia or hypermobility syndrome
Support bone health by helping to counteract the loss of bone density associated with osteoporosis or osteopenia
Improve weight distribution through the knees, reducing stress on the joints and promoting more efficient movement
Before beginning any new exercise programme, please consult a physician or healthcare provider. If you are starting Pilates following physiotherapy, your therapist should advise on the exercise principles most relevant to your rehabilitation.
Pilates, based on focused and controlled movements, enables older adults to move with greater ease, stability, and confidence—whether walking, playing with grandchildren, gardening, or simply moving around the house.
Its focus on balance, stability and strength can help reduce the risk of falls and support recovery from surgical procedures such as hip or knee replacements. It can also assist with a wide range of age-related conditions.
For clients living with arthritis, Pilates can:
Significantly help reduce pain
Improve joint function and reduce stiffness by enhancing joint lubrication (reducing friction), which helps to prevent wear and tear and restore mobility
Clients who suffer with osteoporosis often report feeling stronger, taller and more confident as they move more freely. Pilates exercises can help increase bone density using body weight alone and can easily be adapted to be performed standing or seated, as needed.
Pilates has also been shown to slow or help reverse some of the effects of degenerative conditions such Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. The mid-range, controlled motion of Pilates exercises can help individuals overcome rigidity and improve mobility through symmetrical, flowing movements.
Pilates is commonly recommended by physiotherapists following injuries, surgery, and as an effective rehabilitation tool to support individuals with Parkinson’s, stroke, and various other neurological conditions. Its focused, slow-paced, and low-impact nature provides an ideal approach to movement—fully individualised and tailored to each person’s specific needs.