Clinical Pilates: A Physiotherapy Approach to Strength, Stability & Control

By Mark Zampatti Clinical Pilates Physiotherapist

1. What Is Clinical Pilates?

Clinical Pilates is a system of therapeutic exercises developed by physiotherapists to:

• improve movement quality 
• restore control, and 
• support injury recovery and prevention. 

At The Corio Bay Sports Treatment Clinic, we use Clinical Pilates to:

• Reduce Pain
• Improve Flexibility
• Build Strength and Stability
• Help You regain Confidence in your Body!

2. How Clinical Pilates Differs from Regular Pilates Classes

Not all Pilates is created equal. Here’s how Clinical Pilates stands apart:

1. Individual Assessment
   Every participant undergoes a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment before beginning. This ensures the exercises prescribed are safe and effective for your unique condition, medical history, and movement patterns.
2. Physiotherapy Supervision
   Our Clinical Pilates programs are run exclusively by physiotherapists. 
   
   This means you’re under the care of a university-trained health professional who can modify your exercises on the spot, monitor your form, and progress your program as you improve.
3. Clinical Reasoning
   Each exercise is chosen based on your assessment findings and clinical goals — not just for general fitness. The approach is evidence-based, specific, and targeted.
4. Use of Specialised Equipment
   We use high-quality equipment including reformers, trapeze tables, and resistance gear to facilitate safe and effective movement. This equipment allows us to control load, support injured areas, and provide graded resistance.

5. One-on-One or Small Groups
   Rather than everyone following the same routine, each person works through their own program in a social, small-group setting. 
   
   Prefer one-on-one sessions? 
   
   That’s available too — perfect for those who want full attention or have complex needs.

3. The Benefits of Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates offers wide-ranging benefits for clients of all ages and abilities:

• Core Strength & Stability Activate and strengthen deep stabilising muscles that support the spine and pelvis.
• Postural Control & Alignment Improve the way you stand, sit, move, and breathe by retraining your postural system.
• Injury Recovery & Prevention A powerful rehabilitation tool to help you heal and prevent recurrence of pain or injury.
• Functional Strength Move better in daily life or sport by training the body in practical, movement-specific ways.
• Flexibility & Mobility Safely improve your joint range and tissue flexibility, under guided physiotherapist supervision.
• Balance & Coordination Reduce fall risk and enhance proprioception through targeted neuromuscular exercises.
• Body Awareness & Confidence Feel more in control of your movements and more confident in your physical capabilities.

4. Who Can Benefit From Clinical Pilates?

Clinical Pilates is suitable for a broad range of people. Some examples include:

• People with persistent Back or Neck pain 
• Workers with postural strain from desk jobs or repetitive tasks
• Athletes returning from injury
• Mothers during pregnancy and postnatally
• People recovering from surgery (e.g., spinal, hip, knee operations)
• Older adults wanting to improve balance and reduce fall risk
• People with Chronic Conditions such as Arthritis or Multiple Sclerosis

Because each program is customised, we can adapt it to suit beginners, elite athletes, and everyone in between.

5. What to Expect at The Corio Bay Sports Treatment Clinic Colac

We’ve been running structured group exercise programs for over 28 years — and Clinical Pilates is a key part of our approach.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Initial Physiotherapy Assessment We assess your movement, medical history, and goals before designing your program.
• Individual Program Design Exercises are selected to suit your needs, and adjusted as you progress.
• Familiarisation Sessions Before joining group classes, you’ll complete one-on-one sessions to get comfortable with our equipment and learn how to move safely.
• Small, Supervised Classes Your individual program is delivered in a friendly small-group environment, guided by your physiotherapist.
• A Supportive, Social Environment Our classes have a welcoming, community atmosphere. You’ll get personalised attention — and enjoy being part of a group that shares similar goals.

Some people prefer to continue with one-on-one sessions, and we’re more than happy to accommodate that. Your physiotherapist will help you decide what suits you best.

6. Getting Started With Clinical Pilates

Starting is simple:

1. Book Your Initial Assessment Visit our website at www.cbstc.com.au and click Book Now, or call the clinic to speak with our friendly reception team.
2. Attend Your One-on-One Physiotherapy Assessment This is where we get to know your needs and begin your journey.
3. Begin Your Individual Program Whether you continue with one-on-one sessions or join a small class, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

7. Final Word: Take Control of Your Movement

Movement is life. 

Whether you’re recovering from injury, building strength, or simply wanting to feel more confident in your body, Clinical Pilates offers a path forward.

At The Corio Bay Sports Treatment Clinic in Colac, you’re not just another number in a class. You’re a person with a story — and we’re here to help you move forward, literally.