Since its development by Joseph Pilates in 1920, Pilates has been an efficient way to boost strength and flexibility. This unique form of exercise has been widely incorporated as an injury rehabilitation method globally to reinstitute imbalances and improve strength and flexibility in injured muscles. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of Pilates for rehabilitation and the right equipment to use.

Benefits of Pilates for Rehabilitation

Pilates is an effective form of exercise for people recovering from injuries or surgeries. In fact, over the past five years, a majority of clinical trials using Pilates as a rehabilitation tool have found it to be successful in reducing pain. Benefits of Pilates for rehabilitation include:

Strength and Flexibility Improvement

Pilates helps to increase core strength and target muscles used for everyday activities like walking and standing. It can prevent your muscles from overcompensating for insufficient movements by increasing their range of motion. This makes it beneficial to individuals recovering from injuries that cause stiffness or general muscle weakness. Pilates also improves body symmetry and balance.

Low-Impact Exercise Great for Recovery

Most people who try rehab pilates have had a rough experience that requires gentle handling. Pilates provides exercises that are gentle on the joints. The low-impact movements are easy on the body but incredibly effective in specific areas.

Customization and Muscle Targeting

The Pilates rehabilitation technique has several personalization options. Physiotherapists can customize the workout to accommodate your needs and stages in recovery. They can assess and prescribe select exercises and increase complexity as healing progresses, making it versatile for different levels of recuperation and fitness. The equipment also allows controlled movements to isolate specific muscle groups for a better and more precise approach when focusing on weakened areas.

Top Equipment for Rehabilitation Pilates

Pilates in rehabilitation utilizes specific equipment to regain flexibility and strength as well as aid in injury recovery. While the best and most effective Pilates equipment for rehabilitation depends on individual recovery concerns and recuperation levels, these are some of the best ones. 

• Reformer: One of the most common Pilates equipment in recovery, the reformer includes a sliding carriage and springs, which provide resistance. It allows exercises that target specific muscle groups and is versatile for users within a wide range of recuperation levels.
• Cadillac/Trapeze Table: The Cadillac/Trapeze Table is a versatile apparatus that offers an array of exercises for rehabilitation. Equipped with adjustable straps, bars, and springs, the trapeze table provides ultimate precision. It increases the body's strength and flexibility with its many support options.
• Wunda Chair: To aid recovery, the Wunda Chair is an innovative pedal design offering smooth transition and adjustability. The chair provides targeted resistance, focusing on strength, stability, and balance.
• Barrel: The barrel has a curved surface to work on spinal flexibility and alignment. It’s extensively used in stretching and strengthening practices. You can also use it for back pain relief and posture correction.
• Ladder Barrel: Similar to the barrel, the ladder barrel is curved for spinal flexibility and alignment. It has rungs for more complex exercises that restore range of motion and alleviate pain. The ladder barrel has been widely considered to help with postpartum workouts.

Enhance Your Rehabilitation Programs With BASI Systems

Whether someone is dealing with chronic pain or looking for a low-impact exercise to keep their body moving during a rehabilitation recovery, Pilates is a great solution. Consider offering rehabilitation Pilates in your studio to reach this student group.

At BASI Systems, we provide Pilates equipment to help students on their recovery journey. View our online catalog or contact us to learn more about Pilates for rehabilitation equipment to add to your studio. Or, if you’re in the U.S., visit bodynetworx.com to place your order today.