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?

Teejay Sogunro is not a physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor. 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.

Back pain (LBP)

Caution about large group Pilates Classes!!

Applied Pilates for Men in St Albans

Which type of pilates is right for me?

Choose your Pilates Studio wisely!

Back and neck problems major UK health crisis

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