What’s the difference between Clinical Pilates and large class-based Reformer Pilates ?

Clinical Pilates is a rehabilitation option in a small group format and is designed by a physiotherapist. The Clinical Pilates program will be an individually prescribed program, that takes into account any existing medical conditions of the client, and the desired individual health and exercise outcomes.

Large class-based Reformer Pilates is a fitness option designed in a big class format and supervised by a pilates instructor. Reformer Pilates is structured in a class format where everyone performs the same sequences of movement together and has minimal capacity for individual variability.  The large class sizes are only limited by the number of reformers available, but may be attractive to individuals who enjoy the atmosphere of large group exercise.

Clinical Pilates is an evidence-based approach to exercise prescription and is structured in a group environment where participants have their own individual program and is limited to 4 to 5 participants per group. Clinical Pilates uses reformers, trap tables and other equipment to design programs for patients

Clinical Pilates has been found in the research to benefit multiple movement related health priorities including back and neck pain, knee pain, hip pain and many musculo skeletal ailments.

https://www.cochranelibrary.com/central/doi/10.1002/central/CN-02427694/full

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32986655/

Large class based Reformer Pilates generally will not attract a private cover rebate as the classes are not prescribed for each participant and is usually run by a Pilates instructor. Clinical Pilates will always attract a group rebate because they offer science based and individualised exercise programs that aresupervised by a qualified Physiotherapist.

In Summary – Large class based Reformer Pilates is designed as a fitness option wheras Clinical Pilates is designed as an individually tailored exercise option with high levels of clinical supervision.