Evidence-Based Clinical Pilates

Change happens through movement and movement heals.
— Joseph Pilates
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Expert led Clinical Pilates in Dorset

Dr Lilian Hartman

Dr Lilian (Lil) holds a medical degree from the University of Oxford, alongside a background in ballet, giving her a unique understanding of both clinical medicine and movement. A Dorset local, she returned home after university to work within the NHS across a range of medical specialties.

During her time in the NHS, and alongside her work in clinical research and trials, Dr Lil saw first-hand the vital role that movement plays in strength, rehabilitation, cardiovascular health, metabolic health, and healthy ageing. This experience inspired her to train in Pilates, with a focus on rehabilitation, posture, and good movement practices.

With a Master’s degree in Epidemiology from Oxford, she has a strong foundation in understanding and critically evaluating scientific evidence. This informed approach underpins Vagabond Clinical Pilates practice, ensuring sessions are evidence-based, purposeful, and outcome-driven. Combined with her calm and supportive teaching style, Lil focuses on helping clients move with confidence and control.

As the Lead for Clinical Pilates, Lil works closely with medical professionals to ensure a safe and integrated approach to the movement phase of recovery. She is able to receive referrals directly from clinicians, and where appropriate, can signpost clients towards further medical assessment or treatment if a diagnosis has not yet been made. Dr Lil oversees a small team of Pilates specialists trained in working with injuries, rehabilitation, and special populations, ensuring clients receive the right level of support throughout their journey.

Outside of work, Lil enjoys travelling, painting, strong coffee, and long coastal walks with her energetic spaniel.

Our Specialist Team

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Daisy Horton

Rehabilitation Pilates instructor
A woman with blonde hair, wearing a white t-shirt that says 'Vagabond Pilates,' sitting on a Pilates reformer machine in a brick-walled studio with large windows.
A woman with blonde hair, wearing a white t-shirt that says 'Vagabond Pilates,' sitting on a Pilates reformer machine in a brick-walled studio with large windows.
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Millie

Dr Lil

Clinical Lead
Founder & Injuries/Special Populations Specialist

Medical professional? Refer a client.
Looking for support yourself? Self-refer today.

We're here to help. Get in touch to find out more about Clinical Pilates.

  • "An ongoing hip/ pelvic issue, which has been the cause of major discomfort since pregnancy has started to ease."

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Aimee

  • "I came in with injuries, and they guided me carefully from intermediate moves to more advanced work, always making me feel comfortable and safe."

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - James

  • " I started doing pregnancy Pilates after trying 2 other different places and Vagabond's classes stand out! They are tailored to me and my pregnancy! Have been able to continue working out while doing safe adaptation which is what I have been looking for!"

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Liz

Our Clinical Partners

How Does it Work?

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How Does it Work? *

STEP 1
Injury, surgery, pain, or reduced movement

STEP 2
Assessment and/or treatment from a healthcare professional
(GP, physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor)

STEP 3
Referral or self-referral into Clinical Pilates

STEP 4
Personalised Clinical Pilates review & plan with Dr Lilian

STEP 5
Return to movement through Clinical Pilates therapy