Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates and Pilates Education for Health Professionals

Barwon Sports Physio is leading the way in Clinical Pilates innovation, providing expert training and education to health professionals throughout Melbourne. Our advanced approach combines traditional Pilates principles with evidence-based physiotherapy practices, resulting in a highly effective therapeutic method.

Clinical Pilates is a specialised form of exercise that incorporates scientific research, clinical reasoning, and targeted movement patterns. This complex practice has become increasingly popular among physiotherapists, exercise physiologists, and other health practitioners who want to improve their treatment skills.

It offers comprehensive benefits including effective injury rehabilitation, enhancement of movement control, and significant postural improvement. It serves as an excellent tool for pain management, whilst also contributing to overall performance optimisation. These interconnected benefits work together to create a holistic approach to physical wellness and rehabilitation.

Understanding Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates is a specialised therapeutic approach that combines traditional Pilates principles with evidence-based physiotherapy techniques. This advanced form of exercise therapy targets specific muscle groups through controlled movements, making it highly effective for injury rehabilitation and prevention.

Core Components of Clinical Pilates:

Our physiotherapists apply their extensive knowledge to create individualised Clinical Pilates programmes. Through detailed assessment and continuous monitoring, they adapt exercises using specialised equipment like reformers and trapeze tables. This personalised approach ensures each client receives targeted interventions that align with their specific recovery goals and physical capabilities.

For instance, if you’re recovering from a shoulder injury, our physiotherapists will design a Clinical Pilates program tailored to your needs.

Benefits of Incorporating Clinical Pilates into Practice

Health professionals integrating Clinical Pilates into their practice unlock powerful therapeutic advantages for their clients. Research published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science demonstrates significant improvements in patients’ functional outcomes when Clinical Pilates is incorporated into rehabilitation programs.
  • Accelerated recovery rates for lower back pain patients

  • Reduced risk of injury recurrence

  • Enhanced muscular endurance and core stability

  • Improved postural alignment and balance control

  • Better movement patterns and body mechanics


Clinical Pilates serves as a versatile treatment modality, allowing practitioners to address multiple therapeutic goals simultaneously. The low-impact nature of these exercises makes them suitable for diverse client populations, from athletes recovering from injuries to older adults seeking improved mobility.

  • Precise muscle activation and motor control development

  • Enhanced proprioception and spatial awareness

  • Improved flexibility without compromising joint stability

  • Progressive strength building through controlled movements

  • Advanced breathing techniques integration with movement

 

Health professionals can create comprehensive treatment plans by combining traditional therapeutic techniques with Clinical Pilates principles. This integration enables practitioners to deliver more effective, personalised care while promoting long-term physical wellbeing for their clients.

Strength and Conditioning Services

Barwon Sports Physio's Tailored Approach to Clinical Pilates

At Barwon Sports Physio, each Clinical Pilates journey begins with a thorough individual assessment that forms the foundation of our personalised approach. Our expert physiotherapists conduct detailed evaluations encompassing:

This systematic assessment process enables our physiotherapists to create precise, goal-oriented Clinical Pilates programmes. Using state-of-the-art equipment and advanced diagnostic tools, we develop targeted exercise prescriptions that address specific needs and objectives.

Our customised sessions integrate real-time feedback and progressive monitoring, allowing for dynamic adjustments as clients advance through their programmes. This evidence-based methodology ensures optimal outcomes and sustainable progress for each individual.

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Empowering Health Professionals Through Comprehensive Education Programs

Barwon Sports Physio not only delivers cutting-edge professional development opportunities through structured Clinical Pilates training programs, but also operates a Longevity Clinic aimed at enhancing mobility, strength, and vitality for a healthier, active life. Our education courses combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience, enabling health professionals to master advanced techniques and assessment methods.

  • Foundation Clinical Pilates Certification: In-depth study of core principles, movement analysis, and therapeutic applications
  • Advanced Assessment Techniques: Practical workshops focusing on client evaluation and personalised program design
  • Rehabilitation Protocols: Specialised training in injury-specific exercise prescription and progression
  • Clinical Integration Workshops: Real-world case studies and practical implementation strategies

Our courses are conducted in intimate group settings to ensure personalised attention for every participant. We employ evidence-based teaching methodologies and provide direct mentoring from experienced practitioners. Participants also benefit from access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities throughout their training.

Health professionals gain practical skills to integrate Clinical Pilates effectively into their practice, enhancing their ability to deliver superior patient outcomes. Our comprehensive education programs reflect the latest research and industry developments, ensuring participants stay at the forefront of therapeutic exercise innovation.

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Who Can Benefit from Clinical Pilates and Education Programs?

Our Clinical Pilates education programs serve a diverse range of health professionals seeking to enhance their practice:

Primary Healthcare Providers

These programs particularly benefit practitioners who:

The knowledge gained enables health professionals to deliver targeted, evidence-based interventions while expanding their service offerings and client base.

Elevate Your Practice with Clinical Pilates and Education at Barwon Sports Physio

Transform your professional practice with advanced Clinical Pilates training at Barwon Sports Physiotherapy. Our evidence-based education programs and comprehensive sessions deliver measurable results for both practitioners and clients.

Ready to enhance your practice? Book online today or call us to discuss your professional development needs. Discover why health practitioners across Victoria choose Barwon Sports Physio for Clinical Pilates and advanced education.

Your journey towards clinical excellence starts here.

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Samantha Francis

Physiotherapist
B. Physio(Honours)

Special Interests:

  • Sports injuries and rehabilitation
  • Knee and ankle injuries
  • Snow sports
  • Running related injuries

 

Samantha graduated from Monash University with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy with Honours. She has since worked primarily as a Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, gaining experience in private practice, NHS Hospitals, and sports settings.

Previously, she worked as the Physiotherapist for Queens Park Rangers in London and recently returned from Japan, where she specialized in treating snow sport injuries. Samantha’s keen interest lies in sporting-related injuries, especially lower limb injuries.

Sam is passionate about building strong relationships with her patients to help them achieve their goals. She is committed to patient care and enjoys implementing individualized approaches for both the recovery and prevention of injuries.

 

Samantha is experienced in:

  • Strength and conditioning
  • Ankle and Knee Injuries
  • Acute sporting injuries
  • Dry needling
  • Acute neck and back pain.
  • Snow sports injuries
  • Workcover and TAC clients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Academy Physiotherapist at Queens Park Rangers – London (2023)
  • Ariels Victorian Netball League Physiotherapist (2022)
  • Fitzroy Football club Physiotherapist (2021-2022)

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Kira Grace

Physiotherapist

D. Physio, B. Bio Med, B. Ex Sci

Special interests

  • Sports injuries
  • Running injuries
  • Knee pain


Kira graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Doctor of Physiotherapy. She has experience working with the Geelong Cats and multiple local football teams in the Geelong area, and is the physio for the Victorian Indoor Cricket Team.

Kira is interested in treating sporting injuries, particularly football and cricket, as well as running injuries. She is passionate about injury prevention, rehabilitation, and optimising performance for athletes of all abilities.

In her free time, Kira plays cricket for Geelong and enjoys skiing over the winter.


Experienced in managing

  • Tendon injuries
  • Acute sporting injuries
  • Lower limb rehabilitation

 

Career highlights

  • Victorian Indoor Cricket Team physio
  • Geelong Cats AFLW Trainer
  • Geelong West Football Club Head Physio
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Nathan Skirrow

Physiotherapist
B. Physio

Special Interests:

  • Sports injury management
  • Youth and adolescent sporting injuries
  • Running Biomechanics
  • Stress and overload injuries
  • Hip and Groin conditions

 

Nathan graduated from the University of Western Sydney with a Bachelor in Physiotherapy after commencing a degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Canberra. 

He has since worked in private practice in Melbourne, seeing a variety of patients from a diverse range of sporting backgrounds. He has experience in working with amateur and elite level soccer players, mixed martial art athletes, elite level cyclists, recreational runners and many more. 

He currently works at Melbourne City Football Club, managing the elite level academy players. Nathan has a keen interest in load management as well as strength and conditioning and their role in injury prevention and performance enhancement. 

In his free time, Nathan likes to surf, play golf and play soccer for his local club. Nathan is fluent in French and is able to conduct physiotherapy assessments in French.

 

Nathan is experienced in managing:

  • Acute sporting injuries
  • Concussion management
  • Long term overload/stress injuries
  • Lower limb rehabilitation
  • Strength and Conditioning and performance enhancement
  • Running related injuries
  • Workcover, TAC, NDIS and EPC patients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Melbourne City FC  – Academy Physiotherapist
  • Moreland City FC – External Physiotherapist 
  • St Albans Football Club – Physiotherapist
  • North-West Sydney Spirit FC  – Physiotherapist
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Ross Wettenhall

Physiotherapist
M.Physio, B.Sport&ExSc

Special Interests:

  • Paediatric sports injuries
  • Acute and chronic low back pain
  • Tendon injury rehabilitation 
  • Triathlon & running related injuries

 

Ross has a Masters in Physiotherapy from the University of Sydney as well as a degree in Exercise and Sports Science. He enjoys using a combination of the degrees in patient rehabilitation. 

Ross has 9 years of experience in multiple physiotherapy settings. (Elite sporting teams, strength and conditioning, private practices, orthopaedics, hospital and aged care).  Because of this range of experience, Ross loves treating all types of injuries from all walks of life and is no stranger to a complex physio case. 

Ross incorporates manual therapy techniques including massage, dry needling, joint mobilisations into his sessions alongside strength exercises both at home and in the gym. On top of this, Ross has also taught regular pilates and strength classes. 

When he’s not treating patients at the clinic, you’ll find him either on the golf course, swimming laps or walking/running his golden retriever along the Barwon.

Ross is experienced in:

  • Strength and conditioning
  • Running / exercise injuries
  • Tendon related dysfunction and pain
  • Acute sporting injuries (fractures, muscle/ligament tears, dislocations etc)
  • Paediatric sports injuries and pain
  • Dry needling
  • Pilates

 

Career Highlights:

  • Australian Ultimate Frisbee physiotherapist. (2021-2023)
  • Australian touch rugby game day physiotherapist. (2018-2020)
  • VAFA AFL physiotherapist for University Blues and Old Collegians FC (2017-2023)
  • Wesley College APS 1st XVIII AFL physiotherapist. (2020-2021)
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Sarah Murphy

Physiotherapist
M. Physio, B. HSc, Rehab Physiotherapist at Geelong Cats AFLW

Special Interests:

  • Sports Injuries
  • Running Injuries and Programming
  • Pre- and Post Partum Exercise
  • Pre-pointe assessments

Sarah graduated from La Trobe University with a Masters of Physiotherapy, after obtaining a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in human anatomy and physiology.

Sarah currently is the Geelong VFLW Head Physiotherapist and AFLW Rehab Physiotherapist. Previously, she has worked with the Melbourne Demons AFLW and VFLW teams, and in a private clinic in Melbourne’s CBD. Sarah has also completed various post-graduate courses in rehabilitating sports injuries, assessment and treatment of runners, management of pre and post-partum clients, and is an APPI qualified Pilates instructor. She is also available for pre-pointe assessments.

Sarah is particularly interested in both acute and chronic sports and running injuries, as she is an avid runner herself. She is passionate about helping people from all walks of life feel strong and robust so they can participate in life with confidence, and loves helping people achieve more than they thought they could with a tailored approach.

 

Sarah is experienced in managing:

  •   Acute and chronic sports injuries
  •   Running related injuries
  •   Pre- and  post-surgery rehabilitation
  •   Strength and conditioning
  •   Clinical Pilates
  •   Pre- and post-partum clients
  •   Postural pain (backs and necks)
  •   EPC, TAC and WorkCover clients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Current Geelong Cats AFLW Rehabilitation Physiotherapist
  • Geelong Cats VFLW Head Physiotherapist (2022-23)
  • Melbourne Football Club – VFLW Head Physiotherapist (2020-2022)
  •   APPI Pilates qualification 2021
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Tristan Dower

Physiotherapist
B. Physio, B. Musc Therapy, Grad Cert in Sports Physio (ongoing)

Special interests:

  • Acute sporting injuries
  • Knee and ankle injuries
  • Lower limb tendon management
  • Concussion Management

 

Tristan Graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at ACU Brisbane and since then has combined his time working in Private Practice and Sports. Tristan has gained experience in a number of clinics in both Brisbane and Melbourne, treating a range of conditions including acute sporting injuries, persistent pain and back and neck pain.

Through his involvement in sport, in particular football, Tristan has developed his

interest in sports related injury management, particularly lower limb injuries,

shoulder injuries and concussion management.

Tristan has been involved with a number of men’s and women’s amateur and state level sporting clubs, as well as the elite level which has included roles as the Physiotherapist for Brisbane Lions AFLW team and North Brisbane Rugby Union Club in the QLD Premier Competition

Prior to becoming a physiotherapist, Tristan completed a Bachelor of Musculoskeletal Therapy and spent 5 years as a Remedial Massage Therapist, including 2 seasons at the Geelong Football Club. Tristan is now nearing completion of a Graduate Certificate in Sports Physio as he works towards completing his Masters in Sports Physio.

Tristan is experienced in managing:

  • Acute sporting injuries
  • Persistent pain
  • Pre and post-surgery rehabilitation
  • Back and Neck Pain
  • Clinical Pilates
  • Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis management
  • Workcover and TAC clients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Brisbane Lions AFLW – Physiotherapist (2018-2019)
  • North Brisbane Rugby Club – Physiotherapist (2015-2016)
  • Geelong Football Club – Massage Therapist (2009-2010)

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Erin Nelson

Titled Sports Physiotherapist
M. Physio, B. HSc, M.Sports Physiotherapy
Head Physiotherapist at Geelong Cats AFLW

Erin graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Health Science, Masters in Physiotherapy practice. She has also attained her postgraduate Masters of Sports Physiotherapy.

Erin is currently the Head Physio for the Geelong Cats AFLW and balances this with 1 day at BSP.

Erin has a particular interest in sporting/exercise related injuries and loves being able to keep her clients fit and healthy while rehabilitating their injuries. She also has a new found interest in pre/post-partum return to exercise, post the birth of her 2 children Erin is a mad gym-goer herself and loves a cheeky Crossfit class.​

Erin is experienced in managing:

  • Sporting/Exercise related injuries
  • Pre- and post-surgery Rehabilitation
  • Clinical Pilates
  • Youth and Adolescent Sporting injuries
  • Acute and Chronic Back & Neck pain
  • Work Cover and TAC clients
  • Strength & Conditioning
  • Dry Needling
  • Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) clients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Current Geelong AFLW Head Physiotherapist
  • Melbourne City FC – Women’s Head Physiotherapist (2019-2021)
  • Western Bulldogs FC – VFLW Physiotherapist (2018-2019)
  • Australian Country Hockey Teams – International touring Physio (2013-2017)
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Zach Nelson

Physiotherapist
M. Physio, B. HSc, M. Ex Sci - S&C
Head Physiotherapist at Melbourne City FC

Zach graduated from La Trobe University with a Bachelor of Health Science, Masters in Physiotherapy practice. He has also attained his Masters in Exercise Science (Strength & Conditioning).

Since graduating, Zach has worked with amateur athletes in a football, track & field, soccer, hockey and weight-lifting setting. He has also worked with the Western Bulldogs AFLW team as a Strength and Conditioning Coach and the Melbourne Rebels Rugby team as their Rehabilitation Physiotherapist.

Zach is currently working with Melbourne City Football Club as their Head Physiotherapist. He balances this with one day at BSP.

He has a particular interest in rehabilitation and return to play, while looking to improve performance in sport and everyday life.

Zach coaches multiple athletes in Track & Field, while training himself and grew up playing field hockey at state, national and international level.

Zach is experienced in managing:

  • Pre- and post-surgery Rehabilitation
  • Youth and Adolescent Sporting injuries
  • Osteoporosis and Bone Health
  • Work Cover and TAC clients
  • Strength & Conditioning
  • Dry Needling
  • Enhanced Primary Care plans (EPC)
  • Mobility and Flexibility Training

 

Career Highlights:

  • Current Physiotherapist at Melbourne Demons Football Club (AFL)
  • Melbourne City FC – Head Physiotherapist (2023 – 2024)
  • Melbourne Rebels – Rehabilitation Physiotherapist (2021-2023)
  • Melbourne City FC – Physiotherapist (2018-2021)
  • Western Bulldogs – AFLW Strength & Conditioning Coach (2017-18)
  • Western Bulldogs – AFLW Rehabilitation Coordinator (2016-17​)
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Marcus Emmett

Physiotherapist
M. Physio, B. HSc, B. Ed, Level 2 S&C Coach - ASCA

Special Interests:

  • ACL Rehabilitation
  • Lower Limb Tendon Management (Achilles, Patella etc)
  • Lower Back Pain Rehabilitation

 

Marcus is a Sport and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist who is passionate about working with clients to achieve their functional and performance goals.

Marcus has been involved in Private Practice and Sports Physiotherapy since graduating from Latrobe University with a Masters of Physiotherapy degree.

Marcus has held a variety of sport and rehabilitation roles in elite organisations such as the Geelong Football Club and Essendon Football club, while attaining his post-graduate qualification in Strength and Conditioning (ASCA Level 2 Coach).

Marcus has also completed a bachelor degree in physical education and

combines this knowledge with his physiotherapy and strength and conditioning skills to develop target rehabilitation plans, to ensure his clients reach their goals.

After a stint in the elite sporting industry, Marcus Co-Founded Barwon Sports Physiotherapy with Zach Nelson in 2018 and is focused on delivering World Class Physiotherapy to the Geelong community.

Marcus is experienced in managing:

  • Acute and Chronic knee conditions (ACL, Patellofemoral pain, post surgery etc)
  • Acute sporting injuries (Muscle strains, Joint sprains, dislocations, fractures)
  • Chronic sporting injuries (Tendon Pain, overuse injuries)
  • Acute Neck and lower back pain
  • WorkCover, TAC & DVA clients
  • Medicare (EPC) clients

 

Career Highlights:

  • Geelong Football Club – Rehabilitation Physiotherapist (2018)
  • Essendon Football Club – Physiotherapist (2016-17)
  • Essendon Football Club – Rehabilitation Physiotherapist (2013-15)
 
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Daniel

Exercise Science

Daniel graduated from Deakin University with a Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science and Masters of Applied Sports Science.

He is an experienced Strength and Conditioning (S&C) coach with general population, rehabilitation and sub-elite athletes. Daniel is currently working with the Port Melbourne VFLW side and has a strong passion for athletic development. He works collaboratively with physiotherapists on rehabilitation programs for athletes returning to play and individual performance. 

 

Career Highlights:

  • Geelong Grammar – S&C Coach (2019 – 2020)
  • Werribee Football Club VFL – S&C/Rehabilitation Coach (2019 – 2021)
  • Geelong Cats AFLW – S&C Assistant Coach – (2021 – 2022)
  • Melbourne University Womens Football Club – Head of S&C – (2023 – 2024)
  • Port Melbourne Football Club VFLW – S&C Coach (2024 – Current)  
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Rorri

Myotherapist

Rorri has completed both her diploma of remedial massage and her advanced diploma of myotherapy. She has worked with clients with sporting injuries, postural imbalances, chronic pain conditions, acute pain presentations and more. She also plays and coaches netball and football.

“The part I enjoy the most is working with the patient to work out where their pain is coming from and seeing the relief and smile on their face when they realise they are pain free.”