Is the Pilates Studio Programme only for people with back pain?

frequently asked questions

The Pilates Studio Programme is individualised for each client based on the initial assessment. It is suitable for all ages and abilities so those with back pain (or other injuries) can exercise safely and others who have fitness goals can be given a challenging programme to improve strength/tone and flexibility.

Can I claim my Pilates sessions at Move from my private health fund?

Yes, rebates apply from most health funds if you have extras cover. Some funds will rebate up to 80% of the cost of both the individual sessions (which are classified as physiotherapy visits) and the classes. It is suggested that you check with your own fund and level of cover to confirm the rebate you will receive. Quote the codes listed on the fee schedule, and stipulate to the fund that a physiotherapist supervises all group exercise sessions in our studio.

Is it possible to observe a class to see if this form of exercise is for me?

You are welcome to come and observe a class - simply ring and book with our receptionist.

Do pensioner rates apply for Pilates?

For those on a pension, we offer 10% discount for the individual sessions, however we are unfortunately unable to discount the classes.

Why is Pilates a relatively expensive form of exercise, and why do costs vary between studios?

The Pilates philosophy emphasises “precision” in learning, understanding and performing the exercises with correct technique to gain maximal benefit. Thus, class sizes need to be small compared to other forms of exercise, with an instructor present throughout your workout to supervise.

We are constantly honing our programme to try to present the work in the most cost effective manner for patients, but we also believe strongly in maintaining a high standard at our studio. Thus, we take a detailed individual examination and your programme is not mass produced.

Our classes run for 45 minutes rather than the 30 minutes at most Pilates studios currently.

Once you have completed a Pilates Studio Programme, we can set up a challenging ball and floor programme to continue at home to maintain your core strength and reduce costs.

As detailed in our practice brochure, our instructors are all qualified physiotherapists, with extensive additional training in the Pilates Method through Polestar Education (Florida), Dance Medicine Australia (Melbourne), Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (London), the Pilates Institute of Australasia (Sydney) as well as our own extensive in-house training. Beware the physiotherapy practice teaching “pilates” with only one or two weekends of training!

Is Pilates suitable for conditions such as osteoporosis and pregnancy?

If you wish to undertake a Pilates programme for a back problem and also have osteoporosis, the Studio Programme can be modified to ensure your safety whilst you exercise, and biased to emphasise the important principles of weight bearing, resistance training, balance and maintenance of extension (straight posture).

Pilates is a great way for most women to exercise during and after pregnancy however we recommend that you do not commence a new exercise programme in the first trimester of your pregnancy. Prenatal Pilates mat classes are available at Move.

After the birth of your baby you can continue with Pilates Mat classes (with the prenatal group) or commence a Pilates Studio Programme. These programmes are an excellent tool to get you back in shape, and fit for the demands of new motherhood!!

We recommend waiting until 6 weeks post-partum for normal deliveries (12 weeks for caesareans) and require a medical clearance form signed by your doctor.

In addition to our Pilates Studio Programmes we also offer a range of group mat classes:

Pilates Matwork 1 and 2
Pilates on the Ball 1 and 2
Pre and Post Natal Pilates
Pilates for Men

More detail on these classes can be found on our Pilates Programme Guide.

Unlike the studio equipment classes, mat classes do not involve an individual screening assessment, and are not suitable for those with back or neck pain, or any other significant medical condition affecting fitness.

If these classes interest you, please ring us for details on how to book in.

I hope we have answered some of your questions, but if you have any further queries, please feel free to ring and ask to speak directly to the practice principals, Cathy or Peter.