Founders

Steel Pilates has been developed by Lou James Physiotherapist, Founder of Pink Pilates, and Physician and Auckland University Professor, Rod MacLeod.

Prof Rod MacLeod has been a long time advocate of Pink Pilates and has conducted research into the benefits of exercise for males recovering from prostate cancer.

The success of the Pink Pilates Programme in New Zealand and Australia, and consumer demand for a male-specific rehabilitation and exercise programme has driven the development of the Steel Pilates Programme, launched in November 2011.

Lou James, Founder of Pink & Steel Pilates, Winner of the Woman of the Year for Service to the Community Category 2012. The judges said, "What a dynamo. What a leader. What a difference Lou has made. She has given so much of herself to her programmes. She has enriched communities everywhere". NEXT Woman of the year award

"The increasingly popular Pink Pilates is truly effective at giving women with cancer strength so I am delighted to support Steel Pilates which will improve the physical strength, quality of life and sense of wellbeing of men with cancer."
Prof Rod MacLeod PhD MMedEd FRCGP FAchPM

"There has been a fantastic response to the programme already from physiotherapists keen to be involved, oncology nurses, cancer clinicians and support services. Steel Pilates physiotherapists will help patients overcome the significant physical and functional impairments suffered following cancer surgery and treatments, which often act as a barrier to exercise. They will provide ongoing individual support to improve fitness levels, return to sport and a more vibrant life following a cancer diagnosis."
Lou James Physiotherapist BHSc Phty

The Pink Pilates Programme was launched in 2005, after a four year period of research and development by New Zealander Lou James, in response to a need Lou had identified to help women recovering from cancer surgery and treatments. As a physiotherapist running her own clinic, Lou had seen first hand the physical and emotional toll that cancer had on the lives of the women affected and the people close to them. The programme has been so successful it now has the highest number of medical referrals for a cancer support programme in New Zealand. It is well supported by surgeons, oncology and breast nurses, and other cancer support services. The programme is provided by certified Pink Pilates Physiotherapists in 35 regions throughout New Zealand and Australia. Over the past two years medical referrals have increased participation in the programme by 230%.

OUR VISION

To inspire and encourage men diagnosed with cancer to regain their physical strength and endurance and incorporate exercise into their lifestyle.

OUR MISSION

We are committed to providing New Zealanders and Australians with specialised survivorship programmes dedicated to improving the quality of life, wellbeing and overall health of men after a cancer diagnosis.

OBJECTIVES

To reduce cancer morbidity and mortality
To promote the benefits of exercise for cancer survivors
To represent all New Zealanders and Australians affected by cancer by providing our services in the smaller regions as well as the bigger cities across the country
To monitor and provide professional support to the qualified physiotherapists providing the service
To identify and reduce barriers for cancer patients to ensure they receive appropriate rehabilitation, exercise counseling and management
To increase the awareness of the importance of physiotherapy rehabilitation and exercise prescription for all cancer survivors