What is Pilates?

Move Better, Feel Stronger with Pilates

  • Pilates is a mindful movement practice that strengthens, stretches and rebalances your body. By targeting deep postural muscles, Pilates improves posture, mobility, and overall well-being.
  • Originally developed for rehabilitation, Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s. His method, inspired by yoga, martial arts, and Western exercise, helped injured soldiers recover during World War I. Later, it gained popularity among dancers, athletes, and those seeking strength, flexibility, and injury prevention.
  • Pilates is for everyone—whether you're recovering from an injury, easing stiffness, or simply looking to move and feel better.

Start Your Pilates Journey Today

  • Discover how Pilates can support your health and movement. Let’s begin!

What is APPI Pilates?

The Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute (APPI) method modifies traditional Pilates to suit all fitness levels, especially those in rehabilitation. It ensures exercises are safe, adaptable, and appropriately challenging for each individual.

Health Benfits

  • Strength & Mobility – Improves muscle control, endurance, flexibility, and joint mobility.
  • Posture & Injury Prevention – Enhances alignment, stability, and balance while reducing injury risk.
  • Pain Management – Can help manage non-specific lower back pain when tailored to individual needs.
  • Mind-Body Connection – Boosts concentration and body awareness helping to reduce stress.
  • Respiratory & Bone Health – Supports efficient breathing and increases bone density.
  • Weight Management – Tones muscles and when combined with aerobic exercise, supports weight loss.

Getting Started

For the best results, Pilates should be guided by a qualified instructor who can tailor exercises to your needs. Whether for rehab, fitness, or well-being, APPI Pilates is a safe and effective way to move better and feel stronger.

Who is it Suitable For?

The beauty of Pilates is that it truly is for everyone! Whether you’re new to exercise or an experienced athlete, Pilates can be tailored to meet your needs and goals. It’s an excellent choice for:

  • First-time exercisers looking for a gentle yet effective way to build strength and mobility.
  • Athletes wanting to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and improve flexibility.
  • Recovery after surgery or injury, supporting rehabilitation in a safe and controlled way.
  • New mums looking to regain core strength and posture after pregnancy.
  • Active older adults who want to stay strong, balanced, and mobile.
  • Those at risk of or managing osteoporosis, as Pilates can help build bone density.
  • Individuals managing medical conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, or repetitive strain injuries.
  • ANYONE WISHING TO IMPROVE THEIR FITNESS AND APPEARANCE.

Pilates is suitable for all ages, abilities, and fitness levels. Since exercises can be adapted to your unique needs, it’s a great way to gradually build strength and confidence in movement. Many people start Pilates when they’re feeling unfit, finding it a gentle and enjoyable way to increase activity levels.

Before starting any new exercise program, it’s always best to check with your GP—especially if you have any health concerns. But once you get the green light, Pilates is here to help you move, feel, and live better!

Principles Of Pilates

Pilates is built on a foundation of key principles that work together to create a balanced, effective, and mindful movement practice.
  • Concentration:
    Pilates is more than just exercise; it’s a mind-body conditioning program. Focus is key to getting the most out of each movement.
  • Breathing:
    Breathing correctly allows you to calm the mind and improve your concentration.
  • Centring:
    Every movement begins from your core, or "powerhouse." Strengthening this area provides stability and control for both exercise and daily activities.
  • Control:
    Precision and control help optimise efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Every movement should be deliberate and intentional.
  • Precision:
    Repetition leads to mastery. By practicing with care and attention to detail, movements become second nature.
  • Flowing movement:
    Pilates is about grace and efficiency. Movements should feel natural, seamless, and controlled rather than rushed or jerky.
  • Integrated isolation:
    Learning to isolate and engage specific muscles enhances movement quality, whether in Pilates or everyday life.
  • Routine:
    "Perfect practice makes perfect." Consistency is key—small, regular efforts lead to long-term strength, flexibility, and well-being.
By embracing these principles, Pilates becomes more than just an exercise routine—it becomes a way to move, feel, and live better.