What is the difference between Applied Pilates and regular Pilates?

Applied Pilates is a rehabilitation-first approach using the full STOTT apparatus — Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Barrels — where every exercise is prescribed specifically for your condition and movement pattern. Classical Pilates directly contradicts current medical evidence on spinal loading. Fitness Pilates is high-risk for those with MSK issues due to group sizes and standardised exercises. Applied Pilates brings a clinically-modified form into a small-group environment, delivered only by practitioners who understand musculoskeletal conditions.

Is Pilates good for back pain?

Yes. A 2020–2025 research review in the Journal of Physiotherapy confirms most low back pain does not have a single anatomical cause, imaging is often overused, and the appropriate exercise changes pain — not just tissue strength. The key is that the Pilates is appropriate for your specific back problem, which is why a movement assessment before starting matters.

Why are large group Pilates classes risky?

When class sizes grow beyond a handful of clients, the instructor cannot observe every person, correct form in real time, or tailor exercises to individual MSK needs. Everyone performing the same exercise simultaneously is a fundamental problem when clients have different bodies, conditions and histories. The Sunday Times investigated this directly. Maximum 7 clients at The Sogunro Practice in St Albans is a hard limit, not a target.

How many clients are in a group session at The Sogunro Practice St Albans?

Maximum 7. At 7 clients, Teejay Sogunro can observe every person in the studio, correct form, adjust exercises in real time, and remember each client's history and progression from session to session.

Do I need prior experience to start Applied Pilates?

No prior experience is needed. All new clients at The Sogunro Practice start with a £85 movement assessment — a 60-minute 1-to-1 with Teejay. Most then complete a 3-session 1-to-1 starter block before joining small group sessions. By the time you enter a group, Teejay already knows how you move and what exercises are appropriate for you specifically.

What is Osteolates Therapy and when is it needed?

Osteolates Therapy is a proprietary approach developed by Teejay Sogunro combining soft tissue treatment with rehabilitation-informed movement. It is typically the right starting point when significant muscle tension, scar tissue, joint restriction or acute pain would prevent effective Pilates exercise. It can also run alongside a Pilates programme to manage flare-ups or maintain muscle balance.

How is Applied Pilates different from physiotherapy?

Applied Pilates and Osteolates Therapy are movement-based rehabilitation services that complement medical care rather than replacing it. Applied Pilates is exercise-led using the full Pilates apparatus. Physiotherapy uses a broader range of manual and exercise modalities. Both have a role and are not the same thing.

Pilates advice and rehabilitation guides

Back pain (LBP)

Low back pain: what five years of research tells us Low back pain (LBP) remains one of the

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