About
True Form Physio and Pilates is a new clinic located in Fitness Canterbury New Beginnings and represents a new beginning for the founders Vanessa and Justine.
Since completing their degrees at Otago University in 2006, Vanessa and Justine have dreamed of creating their ideal environment for physiotherapy treatment. Combining their Physiotherapy and Pilates knowledge and working within one of Christchurch's best gyms allows them to deliver a high standard of care providing a full service from acute injury management through to sports specific rehab.
Justine and Vanessa are trained clinical Pilates instructors providing small group Pilates classes and individual tuition in a purpose-built studio. They utilise spring boards and small equipment bringing more variety to your classical mat exercises.
Justine Stratford
Hi, my name is Justine Stratford. Since graduating from Otago in 2006 I have lived and worked as a physio in Christchurch and spent 2 years in the UK broadening my horizons. I came back after the Christchurch earthquakes, met my husband and we started a family.
I have experience treating all kinds of musculoskeletal conditions including pre and postoperative management of orthopaedic injuries. I have 10 years experience working with rugby teams and particularly enjoy treating sport associated injuries. My clinical approach is a mixture of hands on treatment, exercise prescription and clinical Pilates.
I am a Pilates instructor trained in Modified Mat Pilates including antenatal/postnatal training. I love sharing the benefits of Pilates in both classes and working with people one on one.
I have a passion for fitness and truly believe exercise is medicine. To compliment my Physio training I completed a personal training certificate in 2014. This enhanced my knowledge around exercise prescription and strength training.
I aim to help you return to your pre-injury self in a timely fashion while educating you on your injury and empowering you through self-management.
In my spare time, you will find me practicing what I preach in the gym, out running, playing touch rugby, practising Pilates and spending time outdoors with my family.
Vanessa Gibson
Hi, my name is Vanessa Gibson and I am a Physiotherapist born and raised here in Christchurch. I completed my Physiotherapy degree at Otago University in 2006.
Following my studies I returned to Christchurch to work in private practice, gaining experience in treating a wide range of injuries in both athletes and non-athletes alike. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve their goals whether that is recovering from injury, injury prevention or just trying to improve their general health, strength and mobility. I am passionate about delivering a high standard of care for my patients combining manual therapy, dry needling, exercise prescription and Clinical Pilates. Having also trained at Fitness Canterbury myself for nearly 20 years, I understand the importance of strength training and correct technique in rehabilitation.
I trained in Clinical Pilates back in 2010, and have since completed training in reformer and antenatal/postnatal Pilates. I love to share the benefits of Pilates with others, knowing the impact that regular practice has on my own body and mind.
I have experience working with club rugby, and spent 3 years as physiotherapist for regional NPC and U21 Canterbury netball teams.
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my young family, mountain biking, gym and Pilates.
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