Fitness trends may come and go, but Classical Pilates – the original form of the discipline – has stood the test of time, and with good reason. Developed in the early 1900s by Joseph Pilates, it provides a holistic approach to exercise that encompasses the mind, body and spirit. Altum Physio Pilates, a physiotherapy clinic and Classical Pilates studio near Orchard in Singapore, follows the foundational principles of this transformative discipline. With unique small-group classes (maximum of four) and one-on-one sessions, Classical Pilates workouts are ideal for men and women alike, including seniors and prenatal and postnatal mums and mums to-be.
Classical Pilates near Orchard Road in Singapore
“As both a physio clinic and a Classical Pilates studio, we see patients from the surgery table to the physio bed to the Reformer Pilates apparatus. In other words, we transform people from illness to fitness to excellence,” says co-founder and senior Pilates teacher JOANNE CHONG.
Below are some of the tailored Classical Pilates sessions available to accommodate the unique needs of the studio’s clients.
#1 Men’s Classical Pilates
Want to try something outside of weightlifting or cardio routines? Pilates is becoming increasingly popular in men’s fitness – in fact, 50 percent of Altum’s Pilates clients are men. “This is no surprise, as the benefits – from enhanced core strength and balance, to flexibility and overall health and wellbeing – are universal,” says Joanne. “It offers not only a challenging workout, but also encourages discipline, focus and consistency – key elements of a successful long-term workout programme!”
“After struggling with lower back pain and exploring various treatments, Pilates has been a game-changer for me,” says Somnath Kansabanik, one of Altum’s male clients. “It offers a safe and controlled approach to targeting the root causes of back pain such as core weakness and poor posture.”
#2 Classical Pilates for Seniors
Staying active and maintaining our wellbeing is vital as we approach our golden years, and more seniors are embracing Pilates to stay agile. “Its emphasis on precise, controlled movements make it ideal for older adults, with increased joint mobility and improved posture just two of the advantages for seniors,” says Joanne. Altum’s classes are kept purposefully small so teachers can guide attendees through the gentle movements and mindfulness techniques at their pace.
#3 Prenatal and Postnatal Pilates
From promoting optimal posture during pregnancy to restoring core strength after childbirth, Pilates offers a safe and effective way for prenatal and postnatal women to nurture their bodies during pregnancy and motherhood. “Loud music and LED lights are a no-no at Altum, with the environment kept calm to improve mental clarity,” says Joanne. New mums can bring their babies along to the group classes, too.
#4 Clinical Pilates
Did you know that Pilates was originally developed to aid the rehabilitation of injured soldiers and dancers? Clinical Pilates is the method of choice for Altum’s physiotherapists when it comes to rehabilitative and therapeutic exercise. With a focus on targeted movements, this specialised form of Pilates is ideal for those recovering from surgery, addressing injuries and managing conditions such as back pain and chronic musculoskeletal issues. “While we embrace Classical Pilates, patients in acute and sub-acute stages require a more regressed programme to target pain reduction before we progress them towards Classical work,” says Joanne.
#5 Jumpboard Pilates
Great for improving your running gait and more, this fun and challenging workout is on the new group class schedule at Altum Physio Pilates near Orchard. With a maximum of three per class, the exercises blend cardio with resistance training – all while laying down on the reformer. Needless to say, this is significantly kinder to your joints while still elevating that heart rate!
#04-16 Orchard Rendezvous Hotel, 1 Tanglin Road
9278 1685 | altumphysiopilates.com
This article on Classical Pilates and Clinical Pilates in Singapore first appeared in the January 2023 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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