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What Others Say
Information from others on Pilates in general and V.I. Pilates in particular.
Pilates Reduces Low Back Pain
The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, Rydeard, Leger & Smith, July 2006
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In a study published in the July 2006 edition of the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, it was discovered that chronic low back pain and functional disability were significantly reduced for those following an exercise regime based on the Pilates Method.
The study, "Pilates-Based Therapeutic Exercise: Effect on Subjects With Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain and Functional Disability", was undertaken by reasearchers at the Queen's University School of Rehabilitation Therapy. Study subjects were physically active individuals between 20 and 55 with chronic back pain. Subjects were divided into two groups: those who were treated in a traditional manner (consultation with physicians and other healthcare specialists); and those who were taken through a regime of equipment-based exercises of the Pilates method that strengthen core muscules in the lumbar-pelvic region.
After a four week period, subjects in both groups were objectively tested for changes in their low back pain and their functional disability. It was found that functional disabilities in the two groups were markedly different - the Pilates group achieved a mean score that was 37.5% better than the control group. With respect to pain relief, the differences were even more pronounced: the Pilates group achieved a mean score that was 46% better than the control group. Though the study's exercise regime for the Pilates group lasted just four weeks, researchers found that improvements were still observable one year later.
The study concluded that there is clear evidence that for those suffering low back pain and related disability, a visit to a Pilates professional may be far more beneficial that a visit to the doctor.
Read the study abstract
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Pilates - One Exercise Doesn't Fit All
Victoria Times Colonist, February 6, 2004
By Katherine Dedyna
Times Colonist Staff
(excerpts with permission)
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Since she injured her hip in a bus accident six years ago, government employee Barbara Clough had gone through chiropractic, massage therapy and physiotherapy looking for pain relief and a return to full mobility.
When her physiotherapist suggested Pilates might be the next step in helping stabilize her core, she hoped to attend a mat class as an inexpensive method of working out.
But Clough quickly found out from Pilates expert Charlotte van Bassen that she was in no condition to be down on the floor in a large group setting.
Read the excerpted article
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No Pain, Big Gain
Victoria Times Colonist, January 18, 1997
By Grania Litwin
Times Colonist Life Writer
(excerpts with permission)
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It looks like a medieval torture machine complete with cords, pulleys, powerful springs and leather straps. But this rack is different.
The platform, complete with sliding seat, is designed to exert a pull on the body but only very gently.
"We never, never exercise to the point of pain or even a twinge," said Sidney fitness instructor Charlotte van Bassen.
"The idea is to give the whole body a workout, but specifically to strengthen the muscles that support the spine, firm the abdominals and tone the trunk."
The device is called a plié bed - named after the ballet exercise which involves bending very slowly while turning the knees out - and it was developed 75 years ago by Joseph Pilates.
Read the excerpted article
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