Activate January 2026 Newlsetter

In this newsletter:

• Pilates: Our Style
• Onero Term Starts Soon!
• Pre-Pointe Assessments
• Article: Dealing with Tendon Pain

Welcome Back

Hi everyone,

I hope you’ve all had a refreshing break and are feeling ready to step back into movement. As we open the doors for another year at Activate Physio. Exercise Rehab. Pilates, our focus remains exactly where it has always been: on providing a high standard of clinical care that meets you where you are.

Whether you are returning to your regular routine or looking to start something new, we are here to support your journey with precision and expertise. Below, you’ll find details on our upcoming Onero intake and what makes our approach to Pilates unique.

For dance students, it is that time of the year for pre pointe assessments before term starts! We are excited to introduce our new physiotherapist, Momoko Shimasaki, who will assist with dance assessments, physiotherapy consults and Pilates exercise rehab sessions.

See you in the studio soon,

Susie & the Team at Activate (and Sammy of course!)

Pilates: Our Style of Care

At Activate Pilates, we view Pilates as more than just a workout; it is a system of movement designed to restore balance and function. Our style of care is rooted in clinical evidence. 

By keeping our session numbers small and our focus sharp, we ensure that every movement is performed with the correct alignment and intent. This personalised approach allows us to bridge the gap between rehabilitation and fitness, ensuring you move safely and effectively.

We think of it as movement guided by clinical expertise.

You can make a booking on this site or by calling us. If you are new to Pilates, come join us at Activate. We would love to hear from you.

Onero Term Dates & New Class Bookings

Dancers: Pre Pointe Assessments

It’s that time again for a new year and a new ballet grade!

Your dance teachers and parents want to make your progress onto pointe shoes safe and pain free. Prevention of injury and long term foot and ankle issues is so important. Stay strong and enjoy your dance.

Pre Pointe assessments with an experienced dance physio will be part of this exciting time, prior to buying your first pointe shoes.

Susie has 37 years experience working as a physio for dancers. Each year she guides many young dancers through the best exercises for their individual body type. She will look at toes, ankles, knees, hips, spinal alignment, strength and control and give you exercises to optimize your ballet technique and flexibility.

Book your pre pointe assessment now at Activate Dance Physio, 63 Johnston St Annandale. Contact 02 9518 5009 or susie@activatephysiopilates.au

Article: Tendinopathy and Healing: Dealing with Tendon Pain

Tendon pain is one of the most common issues seen at Activate Physio, affecting everything from the Achilles and lateral hip to the rotator cuff and elbow. While often called “tendinitis,” modern research shows that most chronic tendon issues are actually “tendinopathy”—a process where the tendon’s internal collagen structure becomes disorganised rather than simply being inflamed.

The key to recovery is understanding that tendons actually like the load muscles put on them, but they are very sensitive to how that load is applied. Finding the “Goldilocks” sweet spot—where the exercise load is not too much and not too little—is essential for the tendon to adapt and heal correctly. Conversely, tendons generally do not like sudden stretches, compression, or rapid shocks.

We also need to consider daily habits that might be slowing your progress, such as sleeping positions that compress or over-stretch the lateral hip. Small adjustments, like using pillows to keep the thigh and foot properly aligned, can provide significant relief during the night and allow the tissue to rest.

Recovery is a “detective work” process involving graded exercises that often start with static holds—acting as “Panadol for the tendon”—before progressing to heavier loads. Because every injury and body is different, an individualised program is the most effective way to reverse damage and return to a pain-free life.

If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at the clinic or speak to your physiotherapist or experienced instructor at your next appointment.

Warmly,

Susie and the Team at Activate Physio.