Pfilates (short for Pelvic Floor Pilates)  is a method that combines targeted Pilates-based movements to strengthen, restore, and support core and pelvic floor muscles, offering a non-invasive solution for improving pelvic floor health and addressing related challenges. It is a fitness program designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles using a series of exercises based on Pilates, yoga, and traditional fitness movements. It was developed by Dr. Bruce Crawford, a urogynecologist, to provide an effective way to improve core stability, bladder control, and overall pelvic health.

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What to expect with Pfilates at Physical Edge: 

• Our Pfilates instructor, Mena, has done pelvic-floor specific training with Pilates and can guide you through an individualized, 1-on-1 session in a private studio space either on the mat or reformer

• As Mena is also a Registered Massage therapist, your Pfilates session may be billable under your Massage Therapy benefits through your insurance (under specific circumstances)

• Sessions can be 45 or 60 minutes 

  • 45 minutes: $112 ​

  • 60 minutes: $142

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Pfilates is beneficial for:

• People experiencing urinary incontinence or weak bladder control

•  Postpartum women recovering from childbirth

• Athletes looking to improve core strength and stability

• Anyone wanting to prevent pelvic floor dysfunction

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How Does Pfilates Work?

Pfilates exercises engage the pelvic floor, core, and lower body to create a stronger foundation. These movements activate and train the pelvic muscles more effectively than traditional Kegel exercises alone. The program usually involves:

• Squats

• Lunges

• Bridge lifts

• Core and posture-focused movements

• All combined with pelvic-floor specific engagement and breathing techniques

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Since pelvic health is essential for both men and women, Pfilates can be used as part of rehabilitation, postpartum recovery, or general fitness.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

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1. What is Pfilates?

Pfilates (Pelvic Floor Pilates) is an exercise-based program that trains the pelvic floor through real movements — squats, lunges, bridges, and core work — rather than isolated exercises. It was developed by urogynecologist Dr. Bruce Crawford to improve bladder control, core stability, and pelvic health without surgery or devices.

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2. How is Pfilates different from Kegels?

Kegels train the pelvic floor in isolation, but in daily life your pelvic floor works withyour core, hips, and legs — when you lift, cough, run, or get up from a chair. Pfilates trains it inside those movements, which is how it actually has to perform.

 

3. Who is Pfilates for?

It's designed for people with weak bladder control or pelvic floor weakness, postpartum women rebuilding core strength, athletes who want a stronger foundation, and anyone wanting to prevent pelvic floor problems before they start.

 

4. Can Pfilates help with bladder leaks?

Yes — strengthening and re-coordinating the pelvic floor is a first-line, non-invasive approach for stress incontinence (leaks with coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise). Consistency matters: like any training, results build over weeks.

 

5. When can I start Pfilates after having a baby?

Once you've been cleared to exercise by your doctor or midwife — commonly around the six-week postpartum check, but it varies.

6. Do I need a referral?

No referral is needed. You can book directly online or call us at 905-844-8425.

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7. Is Pfilates only for women?

No. Pelvic floor function matters for men too — core stability, continence, and post-prostate-surgery recovery all involve the pelvic floor. The program is designed for both.

 

8. Where can I do Pfilates in Oakville?

Physical Edge Physiotherapy offers Pfilates at 586 Argus Rd, Suite 104, in Oakville, serving Burlington, Milton, and Mississauga. Book online or call 905-844-8425.

 

9. Is Pfilates covered by my benefits?

Mena is a Registered Massage Therapist, so we are able to bill our Pfilates sessions with Mena under you Massage Therapy benefits through your insurance, as long as you are comfortable with some hands-on, massage techniques during your session. ​

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10. What happens in a session? 

There are individualized, 1-on-1 session in a private studio space either on the mat or reformer. We will learn about you goals, fitness abilities and then make each session specific to you.