Podcast Episode 4: What is Clinical Pilates?
Episode 4: What is Clinical Pilates with Annabel Hawker
The first part of our 3 part series with physiotherapist Annabel Hawker.
In this episode we take on what clinical Pilates really is, the problems with it in the UK, why we believe it works so well, who it can benefit and what you should be looking out for!
What Our Experts Say
Clinical Pilates is not defined by a single exercise or piece of equipment. It is the reasoning behind the programme that makes the difference. The instructor should understand the client’s health, movement and goals, choose exercises for a clear purpose and adapt them as the person progresses. Good clinical Pilates should help people feel more confident and independent in their movement rather than simply taking them through a standard routine.
Key Takeaways
- Clinical Pilates combines Pilates with rehabilitation principles – The exercises are selected and adapted using an understanding of injury, movement and the individual’s clinical needs.
- The term “clinical Pilates” is not always used consistently – The level of assessment, supervision and professional training can vary between providers, so it is important to understand what a service actually offers.
- Individual assessment is central to the clinical approach – Looking at your medical history, symptoms, movement and goals helps the practitioner create a programme that is relevant to you.
- Clinical Pilates can benefit more than injured clients – It may support people managing pain or medical conditions, recovering after surgery or simply looking for a more individual and closely supervised form of exercise.
- The practitioner’s training and clinical support matter – When choosing a provider, look at the instructor’s qualifications, their rehabilitation experience and whether they can communicate with physiotherapists or other healthcare professionals when required.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between clinical Pilates and regular Pilates?
Regular Pilates classes usually follow a broader programme designed for a group or general fitness goal. Clinical Pilates is more individualised and begins with an assessment of your health, movement and rehabilitation needs. Exercises can then be modified according to your symptoms and goals. At Complete Pilates, clinical sessions are taught by, or overseen by, physiotherapists.
2. Do I need a physiotherapy referral for clinical Pilates?
No. You can usually begin clinical Pilates without a referral. However, sharing information from your physiotherapist, consultant or scans can help your instructor understand your condition and keep your exercise programme aligned with any existing treatment.
3. Is clinical Pilates suitable for beginners?
Yes. You do not need previous Pilates or exercise experience. An initial assessment allows the instructor to choose an appropriate starting point, explain the basic principles and modify the exercises to suit your current ability.
4. Can clinical Pilates help after an injury or operation?
Clinical Pilates can support rehabilitation by helping you gradually rebuild strength, mobility, balance and movement confidence. The programme should reflect the type of injury or surgery, your stage of recovery and any instructions provided by your medical team.
5. What should I look for in a clinical Pilates instructor?
Look for appropriate Pilates qualifications, experience relevant to your condition and an ability to adapt exercises rather than following a fixed routine. When rehabilitation is involved, it is also useful to choose a service that works closely with physiotherapists and can refer you for further assessment when necessary.
Feeling Inspired?
If you want to experience the Complete difference and discover the benefits of one-to-one or small group Pilates, book a session at one of our London or Norfolk studios today. Not able to make it to one of our studios? We've got online options to suit you anywhere, anytime.
Our physiotherapist-led Pilates studio in West London, our North London Pilates studio, our Pilates studio in London City, and our Norfolk Pilates studio in East Anglia, offer a highly tailored approach to your Pilates training. Whether your goal is to manage a health condition, rehabilitate from an injury or to improve your strength and fitness, Complete Pilates is the studio for you.
Education is Key
These blogs are designed to give information to everyone, however, it is important to remember that everyone is different! If you have not seen one of our therapists and have any questions about injuries, what you have read or whether this may be useful to you, please just ask. We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
If you are not sure whether this is for you, simply get in touch. We are here to help!
Published 8 Oct 2020 · Updated 5 Aug 2026