The Physiotherapy Centre boasts the only Chartered Physiotherapist to be registered as a Body Control Pilates ® instructor in Liverpool.

Sarah Johnson (MCSP, MSOM) has also trained with The Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (APPI); the only European based pilates institute founded and directed by fully qualified Physiotherapists.

What is Pilates?
Pilates encourages the correct muscle recruitment patterns - targeting the deep postural muscles initially. These are often the muscles that are underactive - perhaps due to pain (e.g back ache, poor posture, abdominal surgery or pregnancy). However, there are many more factors that can contribute to weak postural muscles. When the postural muscles are weak the body will compensate by finding other muscle groups to work instead - typically the larger superficial muscle groups that are designed to provide strong and fast movements. This results in a muscle imbalance, and many clients present with muscle groups that are tight and overactive, and other muscle groups that are lengthened and inhibited. This can pull the body out of its correct alignment. Pilates aims to correct that muscle imbalance and maintain correct alignment within the body.

The benefits of Pilates include:
• Better quality of movement
• Reduced stress levels
• Improved Posture; a longer more streamlined body
• Prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal injuries
• A stronger and more flexible spine
• Improved sense of joint awareness
• Toned abdominal muscles

Pilates matwork sessions consist of a series of exercises from beginners to advanced level. Initially Pilates may seem slow compared to other exercises but it is so important to grasp the basic concepts and ensure you can locate and switch on your core muscles. The stronger you get - the more you can challenge your body.

Pilates benefits almost everyone including people who suffer with osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, stress and tension headaches. The list goes on...

If you would like to know how Pilates can help you - please contact us for specialist advice.

Pre & Postnatal Pilates
Pilates is an excellent way to keep fit during and after pregnancy. The Physiotherapy Centre receives referrals from Specialist Women's Health Physios, Doctors, Midwives, Chiropractors and Osteopaths. The teacher also has vast experience treating common musculo- skeletal problems during pregnancy, therefore specialist advice is available if required.

Benefits of Pilates Pre and Postnatal
• Prepares the pelvic floor for increased weight to carry
• Improves relaxation skills for comfort during pregnancy and for labour
• Improves awareness of use of breath control for labour
• Promotes improvements in posture
• Prepares upper body for demands of infant care and breast feeding
• Prevent problems caused by joint instability e.g low back pain, sacroiliac pain and pubic symphysis pain
• Getting your figure back - and looking good!!!