Thinking about Pilates? Know classes from clinical care, then choose a studio

Pilates is popular, but it can mean a gym group class or a clinical session at a physio practice designed around you. Their purpose, price and Extras treatment all differ.

1. Know the class types

• Clinical Pilates: run by a physio or exercise physiologist, starting with an assessment and tailored to you, usually in very small groups.
• Reformer: equipment-based, as a group class or one-on-one.
• Mat group classes: cheaper, suited to everyday fitness without an injury.

2. Check who teaches

Usually only sessions delivered by a physio or exercise physiologist and receipted under your insurer's rules may be claimable. Group classes with a general instructor usually aren't.

3. Injured or postnatal? Get assessed first

With a back injury, after giving birth or with a chronic condition, have an individual assessment first, then decide which class and intensity suit you.

4. Ask about fees and rebates separately

Ask the single and pack prices, expiry and cancellation rules, then confirm with your insurer whether and how much your policy pays.