As an exercise physiologist, I often get asked about the difference between regular Pilates
and Clinical Pilates.
Regular Pilates focuses on overall fitness helping improve strength, flexibility, and posture.
It is suitable for those with no injuries or health concerns. You are often in a large group
doing the same exercises or program as everyone else. They will generally be run by a Pilates
instructor.
Clinical Pilates is a more personalized, therapeutic approach. Clinical Pilates is run by a
University-trained Exercise Physiologist or Physiotherapist. It is specifically designed to
address your individual needs and can be a valuable tool for injury recovery, injury
prevention, or managing chronic pain. These classes are usually capped between 4-6 people
per class so that it is personalised to you. You can also claim these classes on your Private
Health insurance as they are run by accredited Allied health Providers.
The main difference is that Clinical Pilates is tailored to you. The exercises are carefully
selected based on your body’s unique needs, targeting areas like posture, core strength, or
flexibility—all while being gentle on your joints.
What I love about Clinical Pilates is that it’s a safe, low-impact way to move your body,
helping restore balance, improve alignment, and prevent future injuries. Whether you're
recovering from an injury or just looking for a more focused workout, Clinical Pilates offers a
thoughtful, therapeutic approach that’s a step beyond regular Pilates. It’s all about mindful
movement and getting you back to feeling your best.