FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes. Reformer Pilates is not only safe for seniors, it actively supports mobility, balance, and joint health. In fact, one of our star students in his 70's and has had back surgery and multiple joints replaced! At our East Austin studio, sessions are tailored to the individual who wants to stay active, reduce stiffness, and move more confidently.

Absolutely. Clinical Pilates builds strength in the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder while improving range of motion. One-on-one sessions at The Grappler’s PT & Pilates target postural alignment and joint mechanics to relieve discomfort and restore function.

Most clients see noticeable improvements in strength and flexibility with 1–2 sessions per week. Dr. Hardin creates a personalized plan based on your goals, whether that’s injury recovery, athletic performance, or maintaining mobility.

Orthopedic physical therapy addresses recovery from injuries or surgeries involving joints, muscles, and bones. At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates, we also work with active adults and athletes to restore mobility, build strength, and prevent future injuries—tailoring each program to individual activity demands.

Always. Each PT session includes a customized home program so you can continue making progress between visits. Dr. Hardin adjusts these exercises as you improve to keep you moving toward your goals.

Yes. Many patients benefit from sessions that mix physical therapy with Pilates. At our East Austin clinic, Dr. Shelley Hardin offers one-on-one care that blends hands-on PT with reformer-based movement — making us a top choice if you’re searching for “PT and Pilates near me.”

No. We provide all necessary equipment, including a fully equipped reformer and supporting apparatus. You just bring comfortable workout clothing and a willingness to move—Dr. Hardin will guide you through everything during your Pilates session. No shoes required. You’re welcome to wear regular socks or opt for grip socks with non-slip material for added stability if you prefer.

At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates, we offer reformer Pilates Austin sessions tailored to your goals. Each program is private, personalized, and guided by a Doctor of Physical Therapy with authentic Pilates training for strength, mobility, and injury prevention.

Pilates reformer uses a spring-loaded machine to build strength, flexibility, and core stability. Unlike mat Pilates, the reformer offers adjustable resistance and support, making it ideal for all levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.

Reformer Pilates improves posture, enhances joint mobility, strengthens deep core muscles, and lowers the risk of injury. At our East Austin clinic, Dr. Shelley Hardin works one-on-one with clients in authentic Pilates sessions designed for athletes, active adults, and those recovering from injury or surgery—helping each person move better, train smarter, and stay active for the long term.

While mat Pilates focuses on bodyweight exercises, the Pilates reformer adds spring resistance for more control, targeted strength work, and safe progression—especially helpful for injury recovery or performance training.

Your first private Pilates session starts with a movement assessment to identify your goals. We’ll design a customized plan for recovery, performance, or overall wellness, then guide you through safe, effective reformer exercises.

Our clinical Pilates Austin approach blends physical therapy expertise with authentic Pilates techniques. It’s low-impact, adaptable, and designed to rebuild strength, restore mobility, and protect healing tissues at every stage of recovery.

Athletes—from runners to grapplers—use one-on-one Pilates to improve flexibility, maintain mobility, and prevent overuse injuries. Private sessions let us focus on your sport-specific needs without adding extra joint stress.

Pilates at The Grappler’s PT & Pilates in East Austin enhances joint mobility for submission defense, boosts power transfer for throws, supports spinal health to reduce neck and back injuries, and sharpens breathing control under pressure—key benefits for endurance and performance in combat sports.

No experience is required. Our private Authentic Pilates programs are tailored to your level, whether you’re brand new, returning from injury, or looking to refine advanced techniques.

Many clients notice improved posture, strength, and flexibility within 4–6 sessions at our Pilates studio. Consistency builds lasting improvements in movement efficiency and confidence.

Good posture improves breathing, reduces joint strain, and supports efficient movement. In Pilates reformer training, alignment is the foundation for building controlled, functional strength.

You can book a private reformer Pilates session at The Grappler’s PT & Pilates in East Austin through our Jane App. Every appointment is one-on-one, ensuring your training is tailored to your needs and goals.

Our East Austin studio is led by a Doctor of Physical Therapy with Authentic Pilates Reformer certification. Sessions blend movement therapy, injury rehab, and performance coaching in a private, supportive environment.

Authentic Pilates develops dynamic core strength and full-body mobility that benefits everyone, from competitive athletes to those pursuing an active lifestyle. It involves full body movements coordinated with your breath. It also helps you learn to breathe optimally which enhances overall health and performance. During our 55-minute sessions, you'll work on: Dynamic core strengthening and coordination; Increasing spine, shoulder and hip mobility; Strengthening joints in all three planes; Dynamic stabilization of all major joints in your new-found range of motion; Long-term mobility and flexibility

Yes. At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates in East Austin, our clinical Pilates programs strengthen deep core muscles, improve posture, and increase spinal mobility—key factors in reducing back pain. One-on-one reformer sessions are tailored to your body, helping relieve current discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.

At our East Austin clinic, you do not need a referral to start physical therapy, however a referral is required 30 business days after the initial appointment. So you can book with Dr. Shelley Hardin, no problem. If you do need a referral, you can ask your doctor, dentist or chiropractor. If imaging or a specialist is needed, we’ll coordinate it to keep your rehabilitation services moving forward without delays.

You can book directly through our Jane App or by calling the clinic. At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates, every session is personalized by Dr. Shelley Hardin to match your needs — whether that’s back pain recovery, mobility issues, or injury prevention.

At our East Austin PT clinic, your Initial Assessment includes a conversation about your health history, previous injuries, current issue(s) and goal-setting. Based on that, Dr. Shelley Hardin will determine appropriate tests, movement analysis, and conduct your first treatment. Techniques may include manual therapy, dry needling, or targeted exercise to address the root cause of pain and create a customized recovery plan.

Click to check our calendar and book your Assessment.

Physical therapy sessions at our East Austin clinic are unhurried. Consultations last 30 minutes, while Initial Assessments and follow-ups run 75 minutes to allow for manual therapy hands-on techniques, corrective exercise, and education so you leave confident in your home program and recovery plan.

Patients of our East Austin clinic find virtual physical therapy effective for education, guided exercise, and plan updates. Dr. Hardin uses video assessments to coach form and adjust programs. In-person visits are best for manual therapy or dry needling.

Commonly treated issues include back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, hip and knee injuries, post-surgical rehab, tendon issues, and mobility limitations in our East Austin clinic. We help athletes, active adults, and desk workers restore movement, prevent injuries, and improve performance.

Mild therapeutic soreness can occur as your body adapts, but pain is not the goal. Our approach to rehabilitation services focuses on safe, progressive loading and teaching you ways to manage symptoms between visits.

At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates in Austin, manual therapy is combined with corrective exercise for lasting, functional results. Massage focuses on relaxation, while manual therapy is a clinical, hands-on approach to improve joint mobility and tissue health.

Yes. Dry needling is performed with sterile needles to release tight muscles and calm trigger points. It’s safe, evidence-based, and used for chronic tension, sports injuries, and stubborn movement restrictions. Always optional and fully explained before treatment.

BFR training uses specialized cuffs to limit circulation during low-load exercise. This helps build strength and muscle when heavy lifting isn’t possible, making it ideal for post-surgery recovery and other rehabilitation services at our Austin physical therapy clinic.

Many patients at our East Austin clinic notice changes in 1–3 visits; lasting improvement typically takes 4–8+ weeks, depending on your condition and consistency. Dr. Hardin designs every orthopedic physical therapy program for sustainable results, not quick but temporary fixes.

Wear athletic clothing and shoes for freedom of movement. Bring any imaging, surgical instructions, or prior exercise programs. Staying hydrated is encouraged—especially important in Austin’s heat.

This depends on your injury and recovery stage. We'll work together to create a plan that maintains your activity level without a significant setback by modifying intensity and volume as needed. Whether you're preparing for a BJJ competition or wanting to stay active in your favorite physical activities, we'll find the right balance for you.

As a middle-aged PT and competitive athlete, I understand the demands of maintaining an active lifestyle. My approach combines traditional physical therapy with advanced techniques like dry needling and blood flow restriction training, plus authentic Pilates, creating a comprehensive system for both injury recovery and performance enhancement. Whether you're a BJJ athlete, weekend warrior, or someone committed to staying active, we'll develop a plan that supports your goals.

The Grappler’s PT & Pilates is on East MLK Blvd (Suite 214) with on-site parking. Located in Casa de Luz East in the Chestnut neighborhood, we’re just minutes from Blackland, Rosewood, Central East Austin. East César Chávez, Downtown Austin, and the East MLK Combined Area. Directions and entry details are included in your booking confirmation for a smooth start to your physical therapy visits.

Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9 AM to 7 PM Wednesday: 9 AM to 7 PM Thursday: 9 AM to 7 PM Friday: 9 AM to 7 PM Saturday & Sunday: Closed Exceptions to the schedule may be made on a case-by-case basis.

We’re a cash-based practice in East Austin, allowing fully personalized care without rushed visits. You’ll receive a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement, a common choice for orthopedic physical therapy patients seeking faster progress.

Please cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours in advance. This keeps appointment times open for other Austin patients who need care and rehabilitation services. Late cancellations or no-shows may incur a fee. You may view our full Cancellation/Return Policy here.

Yes, we can discuss payment plan options for larger treatment packages.

We accept all major credit cards, cash, and digital payments through Venmo or Zelle.

The Grappler’s PT & Pilates in East Austin is a trusted spot for injury recovery Pilates. Dr. Shelley Hardin offers reformer-based rehab programs that restore strength and mobility in a safe, guided way. If you’re searching for “injury recovery Pilates near me,” our studio provides one-on-one attention to help you return to movement confidently.

Yes. We offer Pilates rehab sessions that are personalized and cost-conscious. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or managing chronic pain, Dr. Shelley Hardin builds a plan that fits your needs and budget. Many patients use HSA/FSA funds to make care more affordable at our East Austin clinic.

At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates, rehab is built into every Pilates program. Our reformer sessions are tailored for recovery from injuries, surgeries, and mobility issues. Located in East Austin, we help athletes and active adults regain confidence in movement with personalized care.

Booking is easy. Use our online Jane App link to schedule your rehab Pilates session, or call our East Austin clinic directly. No referral is needed, and Dr. Shelley Hardin will design your program after a quick evaluation.

While there are many options nationally, The Grappler’s PT & Pilates stands out for combining authentic reformer training with physical therapy expertise. Based in Austin, we’ve helped patients from across Texas and beyond recover with Pilates-based rehab.

Yes. Our Austin clinic blends physical therapy and Pilates for a powerful recovery approach. Dr. Shelley Hardin integrates hands-on PT with reformer exercises to improve strength, mobility, and resilience after injury. Texans benefit from direct access, so you can start without a referral.

Combining Pilates with physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to restore mobility. At our East Austin clinic, patients improve flexibility, balance, and confidence in movement through guided reformer sessions paired with PT techniques.

We’re located on East MLK Blvd., just minutes from downtown Austin. Our clinic offers Pilates-based physical therapy that helps patients recover from injuries and improve function. If you’re searching for “rehab near me” in the central Austin area, we’re an accessible choice.

At The Grappler’s PT & Pilates, we specialize in integrating both. You’ll work directly with Dr. Shelley Hardin, who combines physical therapy and reformer Pilates to target recovery, strength, and injury prevention — all in one East Austin location.