What is Physiotherapy Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise method that integrates postural and breathing awareness into a program designed to strengthen the core muscles. Physio Pilates has been shown to address current concerns and is the key to the prevention of the following conditions:
Goals of Physio Pilates
At GWHA we strive to provide our clients with the tools and confidence to continue their home exercise program, either independently or in our community. After the completion of our rehab-based physio pilates class, our clients are ready to adopt exercise as a regular strategy to keep them healthy in the future.
Our Physio Pilates Program is instructed by a Physiotherapist who is also a Certified Pilates instructor. Physio Pilates consultations are offered on-site, during a one-on-one session and are required by the Ontario College of Physiotherapists before starting classes. After the consultation, private Mat and Reformer sessions are available, as well as group Mat classes. Our program is ideal for anyone who has completed their rehabilitation plan and is looking to improve their health through an advanced independent exercise program.
If you are a new or returning client of GWHA, not currently in treatment, then the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario requires a recent clearance assessment in order to determine that you are safe for participation. ** An assessment fee will be charged.**
Insurance: Physio Pilates fees are eligible for insurance reimbursement if your plan allows it and a receipt with the instructor’s College registration number will be provided at the end of every class you attend.
If you are interested in registering for an upcoming session of Physio Pilates classes, please call 519-780-0606 or email info@gwha.ca
Community Pilates
Melissa George
Certified Pilates InstructorMelissa is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor and a Franklin Method® Educator with a strong foundation in science and education. Her approach is rooted in curiosity, always seeking to understand how the body moves and functions. A significant back injury postpartum led her to Pilates—not just as a tool for recovery but as a way to rethink how she moved, cared for, and listened to her body. This sparked a lifelong pursuit of learning, blending movement principles with practical application.
Melissa takes a student-centered approach, recognizing that each individual brings a unique movement history and learning style. She helps clients develop greater ease, efficiency, and confidence in their movement through exploration and education.
Her goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to move well—whether for rehabilitation, performance, or everyday function. By fostering curiosity and encouraging self-discovery, she helps clients build strength, resilience, and a deeper connection to their bodies.
Outside the studio, Melissa loves spending time with her partner and two amazing kiddos. She finds joy in live theatre, music, and meaningful conversations—whether at a concert, on a walk-and-talk, or over a great cup of coffee. Whenever she can, she escapes to the shores of Lake Huron, where she’s happiest dividing her time between splashing in the water and unwinding with a good book.
Conditions addressed by Physio Pilates
Low back pain
Upper back pain & stiffness
Postural concerns
Hip stiffness or chronic “tight hips”
Pelvic floor concerns such as incontinence
Return to fitness & Postpartum programming