5 minutes with...Liz from Pulse Physiotherapy

Bonjour mes amis

Yesterday I introduced you to my personal trainer so in keeping with the exercise theme of the week; today I’d like you to meet Liz Quinn from Pulse Physiotherapy.

A few years ago I started doing Pilates at a practice in the city but I wasn’t very happy with the experience so I decided to change studios. I was driving home from work one evening and saw Liz’s studio and thought I’d give her a call. From that very first phone call I knew I was going to love doing Pilates at Pulse, she was easy going & incredibly friendly and one of those people you just get good vibes from.

It’s now been 3 years & I have to say that thanks to Liz, not only has my core strength improved but I’ve also had less back pain which has haunted me for years.

Here’s what Liz had to say during our 5 minutes…

How is Pilates different to other forms of exercise & what are the benefits?

Pilates varies greatly from traditional forms of exercise such as running or lifting weights. It uses your own body weight or spring resistance to tone and strengthen muscles safely and efficiently. It has a large focus on improving core strength around the abdomen and back, whilst strengthening the lower and upper limbs.

Instead of building bulk, Pilates elongates muscles in the strengthening process. This in turn improves muscular tone without sustaining any muscle damage. Studies show that this form of strengthening is extremely effective at improving not only general body tone, but bone density, flexibility and posture. It is also a great way to rehabilitate injuries and prevent any further joint or muscle damage.

How fit do I need to be to practice Pilates & how long does it take to see results?

A person of any age and fitness level can begin Pilates. Pilates caters for beginner through to advanced fitness levels and I regularly encourage those who have not attempted Pilates before due to poor fitness to come and give it a try! As Pilates engages partial resistance to strengthen and tone, a high degree of cardiovascular fitness or muscle bulk is not required.

Results are often seen quickly. Within 4 - 6 weeks a change in abdominal tone and strength is often observed. Then depending upon how regularly you practice Pilates, excellent results can be achieved within 8 - 12 weeks depending upon your specific goals. Some examples of regular goals may be a sliming of the waistline, toning of the arms and thighs and an improvement in flexibility and posture. These can all be achieved within the time frames mentioned above.

Is Pilates good for those who want to target a specific area of their body?

Pilates is excellent at targeting either specific areas or even specific muscles, and it achieves this whilst activating your central core. For example, whilst you are toning your triceps or inner thigh, you are continually working on your tummy tone and shape. You can imagine that after a 60 minute full body workout your tummy muscles, which have been working throughout, are very fatigued. What an efficient and safe way to shape your abdominal region!

Are there any people who shouldn’t do Pilates?

There are no limitations as to who can attend Pilates. At Pulse we have a wide spectrum of clients ranging in all ages and all fitness levels. We cater for those who want a general workout to clients requiring specific injury rehabilitation and advice. As Pilates does not exclude any particular body type or fitness level, its worldwide population has grown substantially over the last 10 years. We would recommend however that if you are suffering from acute or chronic pain, that you consult your physiotherapist before attempting Pilates.

What’s your opinion on group Pilates classes at fitness clubs? Are these beneficial?

Group Pilates classes at fitness clubs can be beneficial. I know many people who have attended group gym Pilates classes and thoroughly enjoyed their experience. There are however several differences between attending a group gym class and for instance a class at a specialised Pilates studio such as Pulse.

At Pulse we employ only the highest trained professionals. Our instructors have taken many years to achieve their respective qualifications in Pilates and Physiotherapy and are required to undergo intensive ongoing professional development within the studio. In addition, class numbers are always kept to a minimum to allow for individual attention. Each client has undergone an individual session with one of our trained staff prior to their first class, ensuring their Pilates technique is effective and hence, safe! There have been many occasions in group gym classes where poor technique combined with inadequate supervision has resulted in injury. I would always recommend that if you are considering joining a Pilates class that you look for a specialised Physiotherapy based studio in your area.

For more information about Liz & Pulse Physiotherapy please visit her website at http://www.pulsephysio.com.au.

Victoria x