Physiotherapist-Led Mat Pilates Group Exercise Classes

Q: Do I need an assessment before joining?

Yes. The assessment helps Erin confirm suitability, choose the starting level and identify any exercise modifications.

Q: Are private health rebates available?

A rebate may apply when the service meets the health fund's requirements and uses an eligible physiotherapy item. Participants should check with their health fund and clinic reception.

Small-group mat Pilates-style exercise with Pilates-trained physiotherapist Erin Runge.

Article by Erin Runge

Erin Runge supervising a physiotherapist-led mat Pilates group exercise class

Erin supervises controlled mat exercises and adjusts movements for each participant.

Mat Pilates With Physiotherapy Guidance

PhysioWorks mat Pilates group exercise classes are run by Erin Runge, a Pilates-trained physiotherapist. Erin combines controlled mat Pilates-style exercise with physiotherapy assessment, clinical reasoning and individual exercise modification.

The classes focus on posture, mobility, strength, trunk control, balance and confidence with movement. Erin can change an exercise, resistance, range or position to suit each participant’s ability and current needs.

These classes are one part of the wider PhysioWorks group exercise pathway. The broader page explains other options, including Exercise Physiology-led, balance and bone-health programs.

Quick answer: These are small-group mat exercise classes led by a physiotherapist, not a large commercial Pilates or general fitness class.

An individual assessment is required before joining so Erin can confirm the right starting level and any exercise changes you may need.

Physiotherapy Group Exercise Classes

Arrange Your Assessment

An individual physiotherapy assessment is required before joining the Mat Pilates group at Clayfield or Sandgate.

Call Clayfield Call Sandgate

What Happens During a Mat Pilates Group Class?

Erin guides the group through a structured sequence of controlled exercises. Sessions may include mat-based strength work, mobility exercises, trunk and hip control, posture exercises and balance challenges.

Exercises can use body weight or simple equipment such as resistance bands, Pilates rings, small balls and blocks. Erin demonstrates each movement, monitors technique and provides individual cues throughout the class.

The exercises may vary between participants. One person may use a smaller movement range, while another may use more resistance or a more challenging position.

A Typical Class May Include

Mat Strength

Controlled body-weight and light-resistance exercises for the trunk, hips, legs and shoulders.

Movement Control

Exercises that build awareness, coordination, alignment and control.

Mobility

Guided spinal, hip and shoulder movements within a comfortable range.

Balance

Simple balance and coordination challenges matched to your ability.

Why Choose a Physiotherapist-Led Class?

A physiotherapist-led class adds assessment and clinical oversight to the group exercise setting. Erin considers your symptoms, health history, movement capacity and rehabilitation goals when selecting or adjusting exercises.

Individual Modifications

Erin can change your position, movement range, resistance, repetitions or level of support.

Technique Feedback

Erin monitors movement quality and provides practical cues throughout the class.

Planned Progression

Exercises can progress through resistance, range, support or movement complexity.

Clinical Oversight

Your class program can remain aligned with your current physiotherapy plan.

Who May Benefit From Mat Pilates Group Exercise?

The classes may suit adults who want supervised exercise with more individual guidance than a standard fitness class. Participants should be able to exercise safely in a small-group environment after completing the required assessment.

People Often Join to Work On:

general strength
posture
movement control
core stability
mobility
balance
return to exercise
exercise confidence

Some people join after treatment for lower back pain, while others want ongoing guidance with core stability exercises, hip strength, posture or general conditioning.

Others may be better suited to one-to-one physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology or another PhysioWorks group program. The initial assessment helps identify the right pathway.

Do I Need an Assessment Before Joining?

Yes. Every participant must complete an individual assessment before joining the class.

During the assessment, Erin reviews your health history, symptoms, exercise experience, movement and goals. She can then determine whether the class is suitable and record any exercises that need modification.

The assessment also gives you a chance to practise important movements before entering the group. Erin may recommend one-to-one physiotherapy first when you need closer supervision, further assessment or more individual rehabilitation.

Your Assessment Helps Erin Determine

1	whether a group class is suitable
2	your safest and most useful starting level
3	which exercises need modification
4	whether you need extra support or equipment
5	whether individual treatment should come first

Meet Your Class Physiotherapist: Erin Runge

Erin Runge is a physiotherapist with Pilates training who practises at PhysioWorks Sandgate and Clayfield. Her classes combine Pilates-style movement with a physiotherapy approach to exercise selection, supervision and progression.

Erin provides clear demonstrations, practical feedback and individual exercise alternatives. Her calm and precise coaching style helps participants understand what they are doing and why an exercise may need to change.

Current Class Locations and Times

Clinic	Current Class Times	Contact
Sandgate	Monday 6:15–7:00 pm Wednesday 8:00–8:45 am	(07) 3269 1122
Clayfield	Tuesday 9:30–10:15 am	(07) 3862 4544

Class availability and times may change. Reception will confirm the current timetable and arrange the required initial assessment.

What Should I Bring to Class?

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. Bring a water bottle and any personal items Erin recommends during your assessment.

The clinic provides the main exercise equipment. Tell Erin about any recent change in your symptoms, health or exercise tolerance before the class begins.

How Are These Classes Different From Reformer Pilates?

Erin’s group exercise classes mainly use mat Pilates-style exercises and small equipment. They differ from one-to-one Reformer Pilates, which uses a Pilates reformer in an individual appointment.

Mat group exercise may suit people who are ready for a supervised small-group program. One-to-one Reformer Pilates may offer more individual attention or equipment-based exercise options.

Mat Pilates Group Exercise FAQs

Are these classes the same as general Pilates classes?

No. Erin’s classes use mat Pilates-style exercises, but a physiotherapy assessment and clinical exercise modifications guide the program. Participants do not all complete the same exercise at the same level.

Who runs the classes?

Erin Runge, a Pilates-trained physiotherapist, runs the classes at PhysioWorks Sandgate and Clayfield.

Do I need an assessment before joining?

Yes. The assessment helps Erin confirm suitability, choose your starting level and identify any exercise modifications.

Can I join if I have back pain?

Some people with back pain may be suitable for supervised mat Pilates-style exercise. Erin may recommend individual physiotherapy first when closer assessment or support is needed.

Do I need Pilates experience?

No previous Pilates experience is required. Erin explains the movements and provides different levels where appropriate.

Are private health rebates available?

A rebate may apply when the service meets your fund’s requirements and uses an eligible physiotherapy item. Check with your health fund and clinic reception.