Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by a German physical trainer called Joseph Pilates who was born in 1880. He had several illnesses as a child and as he grew he studied various forms of exercise including body building, yoga and even gymnastics to try and overcome his own problems. He then developed a series of exercises to suit himself  which improved his physical and mental well being and he became exceptionally fit.


Years later in America he began working with dancers, gymnasts and athletes and developed Pilates as a form of exercise for all.

Over the years many organisations have used the same principles of Pilates exercise as established by Mr Pilates, but put their own slant on them hence many very effective and safe forms of Pilates have emerged.


The Instructors who do Pilates in Kilkenny Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic and our sister clinic, the Core Clinic Ltd., in Clontubrid, Freshford, are qualified in the Stott Pilates Technique or the Australian Physiotherapy Pilates Institute, (APPI) Pilates. All instructors are also Chartered Physiotherapists, as we feel this is best for the client.


We also teach Stability Ball classes which are in essence a form of pilates using and exercise ball


Chartered Physiotherapists, who have completed a Degree in Physiotherapy will have an indepth understanding of Normal Movement and will be best equiped to teach these detailed exercises effectively and safely.



There are eight principles as described by Joseph Pilates:

  • -Relaxation.
  • -Concentration.
  • -Co-ordination.
  • -Alignment.
  • -Breathing.
  • -Flowing movement.
  • -Empowering the centre.
  • -Stamina.


When these principles are applied and taught effectively and safely, Pilates helps to:

  • -Strengthen and tone muscle.
  • -Improve posture.
  • -Improve co-ordination.
  • -Provide flexibility and balance.
  • -Relieve stress and tension.


Pilates when Recovering from Injury
Many people who suffer injury or have problems with their back, neck, legs etc will benefit from Pilates. We offer well structured classes with small numbers to facilitate careful supervision in Kilkenny Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic. Sometimes it is advisable to begin with our back class if the client is not yet ready for Pilates, your therapist will decide if you are ready or not.

Pilates when Suffering from Chronic problems
Many people suffer in silence. Some because they dont have time to get sorted, some because they always put themselves last, some because they cant afford physiotherapy, some just put it on the long finger and some just dont realise that help is at hand.
Pilates is a great way of relieving yourself of low grade long term aches and pains without huge cost. It is a form of exercise that, when well mastered, can be used as an effective home exercise programme to maintain flexibility and core strength.

Pilates for Healthy Individuals
This is an ideal form of exercise for building up Core Strength and flexibility to help you with every day activities, improve performance at sport and prevent many sporting injuries.
These are usually done in our Sister Clinic, the Core Clinic in Clontubrid, Freshford, Co. Kilkenny where we have more space and the classes can progress on to Intermediate and Advanced standard

Men's Pilates
Yes it is suitable for men. In fact it was designed by a man.  Usually men are just too embarassed to turn up, and think that Pilates is a woman's thing, but that is so far from the truth, we find that our men work exceptionally hard in the classes and do extremely well in them. Dont worry - there's no Lyrca involved!!!!

Teen's Pilates
We have special classes to suit teenagers, some of the exercises are modified and done using an exercise ball to keep the interest. Most feel a huge difference in their posture, flexibility and some in their sporting ability especially in reducing injuries.

Stability Ball Pilates
To provide variety and challenges to our Pilates classes, click here for more information

Elderly
Our classes for the elderly are designed to get the over 60s, and those with osteopaena or osteporosis working on their posture and inner strength, to delay that downward trend of the elderly spine.

Pre & Post Natal Pilates
Well instructed and structured classes are perfect during pregnancy and just after. Depending on numbers these classes may take place in Kilkenny Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic or in our Sister Clinic, the Core Clinic Ltd., Clontubrid, Freshford.

During Pregnancy (Pre - Natal)


·               Safe form of exercise (When properly instructed)

·              Retrain Pelvic Floor & Prepare body for birth

·              Prevent Backache during Pregnancy

·              Improve Posture during Pregnancy

·              Help with Relaxation

·              Recreation & Time to Yourself

·              Meet other Mothers to be


Post Pregnancy (Post - Natal)


·              Safe form of exercise (When properly instructed)

·              Tone Up & Bring Body back into shape

·              Release Back after pressures of pregnancy

·              Retrain Pelvic Floor

·              Prepare body for more strenuous Exercise

·              Recreation & Social Element

·              Time to Yourself away from baby or

·              Bring your baby with you


This is a purpose built Pilates studio in Clontubrid, Freshford, Co. Kilkenny. We cater for all the above groups and do small classes in Kilkenny Physiotherapy Clinic to cater for individuals who are unable to travel to Freshford.


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