Bespoke Physiotherapy

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Pilates vs Neuromuscular Exercise: What is best for me?

In the last few years, ‘pilates’ has gained huge popularity. You might have seen pilates classes listed on your gym class timetable as well as at your local physiotherapy clinic or pilates studio. There are important differences between a standard pilates class and the Neuromuscular exercise sessions we offer here at Bespoke Physiotherapy.

Pilates was developed by a man named Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s with the aim of improving physical and mental conditioning (1). Pilates is an exercise method which increases strength and endurance of core muscles, and improves flexibility, dynamic postural control and balance (2,3,4). It can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall quality of life (5,6).

At Bespoke Physiotherapy, Neuromuscular exercise describes our approach to providing individualized guidance and treatment direction to help you improve your postural awareness, balance, strength and motor control. This may be achieved in different ways including the use of manual therapies and facilitated movements, clinical Pilates principles, targeted exercises, as well as education and advice on pain, fatigue, and symptom management.


This is not to say that pilates is not a highly effective form of exercise which can improve many aspects of your well-being. However, ensuring that your physiotherapist has a sound understanding and knowledge regarding neurological conditions, chronic pain, vestibular issues and recovery following surgery will enable you to receive the most appropriate and tailored rehabilitation.

Through using a thorough assessment process, we aim to identify areas within the body that need some extra attention, whether this means more movement, greater strength or more selective control, we are ready to work with you to help you achieve your goals!

References:

1. Wells, C., Kolt, G. S., Bialocerkowski, A. (2012). Defining Pilates exercise: A systematic review. Complementary Therapeutic Medicine, 20, 253–262.

2. Byrnes, K., Ping-Jung, W., Whillier, S. (2018). Is pilates an effective rehabilitation tool? A systematic review. Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, 22, 192-202.

3. Landmark, T., Romundstad, P., Borchgrevink, P. C., Kaasa, S., & Dale, O. (2011). Associations between recreational exercise and chronic pain in the general population: evidence from the HUNT 3 study. Pain, 152(10), 2241-2247.  

4. Wells, C., Kolt, G. S., Marshall, P., Hill, B., & Bialocerkowski, A. (2014). The effectiveness of Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain: a systematic review. PloS One, 9(7), e100402.

5. Bulguroglu, I., Guclu-Gunduz, A., Yazici, G., Ozkul, C., Irkec, C., Nazliel, B., & Batur-Caglayan, H. Z. (2017). The effects of Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates in patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A randomized controlled study. NeuroRehabilitation, 41(2), 413–422. https://doi.org/10.3233/NRE-162121

6. Marques, K., Trindade, C., Almeida, M., & Bento-Torres, N. (2020). Pilates for rehabilitation in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review of effects on cognition, health-related physical fitness, general symptoms and quality of life. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 24(2), 26–36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2020.01.008