Morphmat is a life changing exercise system based on the use of a specially designed mat in
combination with individually formulated exercises.
The Morphmat product is hand made in New Zealand by a specialist upholsterer from high
quality man-made materials which look and feel like leather. The ‘standard’ size is 1.8 m (6
foot long) and is functional for clients between 1.5 m (4 foot 11 inches) and 1.8 m (6 feet
tall). Other sizes can be custom made. Leather is also available as a material, A Morphmat
is guaranteed for 5 years, but with good care should last for many years longer. Each
Morphmat comes with a robust cover sleeve of the same material as the Morphmat..
The goal for Morphmat clients is to integrate the Morphmat and exercises into daily life.
Clients are supported by the trainer to persevere and persist with exercises. As muscles
activate with regular practice, there will be no discomfort. Frequent short sessions at home or
the office are recommended to increase the effectiveness of the program.
Exercises are created by the trainer to instill the activation of muscles and ligaments.
Working on the Morphmat, the client uses the hand and footholds to achieve resistance,
which intensifies the effect of each exercise. The program works on all muscle groups and
ligaments.
The work is done supine (on the back), prone (on the front), and seated at a stool. The use of
the Morphmat as resistance in any position creates a full body workout. The Morphmat
provides the required level of tension, stability and symmetrical framework to efficiently
activate the body. This acts to overcome restrictions and muscle compensations which have
led to compromised posture and painful movement patterns.
The benefit of the Morphmat technique is not restricted to fit, active, and healthy clients.
There have been huge gains for women with diastasis recti in engaging the stomach muscles,
with the result that the protrusions reduce significantly. Clients with neurological conditions
such as Parkinsons and Multiple Sclerosis have responded well to the exercises, finding
increased range of movement and balance after even one session.
The price for the Morphmat including postage is $NZ400, and includes an assessment session
and an individualized exercise program. Pease note that postage to other countries will be an
additional cost.
The complete program takes 10 in-person sessions with the trainer in a studio or by Zoom,
each lasting an hour. On completion of the program, the client receives a training manual and
reference film of their exercises. This can be followed by regular half hour maintenance
sessions with the trainer, and the client is strongly encouraged to practice each day at home.
The cost for the program is $NZ80, with the half hour sessions costing $NZ45. A “grazing
package” is available for $NZ250 consisting of 10 fifteen minute sessions, which can be
fitted in around the client’s personal schedule.
The Morphmat program restores muscle symmetry as the client increases core
strength, flexibility, co-ordination and stamina. With continued practice, physical
balance is redefined and spatial awareness improves. As the client becomes
more aware of their body state and how environment influences movement,
balance and dynamic strength improve. Integrating all the elements of
movement creates more confidence and an understanding of how the body can
be safely challenged.
The method has tremendous benefits for those experiencing neurological
conditions, recovery from injuries and long term muscle degeneration. The mat
can be adapted for use in a wheelchair, and the method offers clients relief from
the effects of muscle atrophy.
Breathe Move Live
Connected, Distinctive and Creative
Morphmat is an exercise tool designed to allow clients to use the resistance of their own
bodies to strengthen muscles and ligaments. The mat is 6 feet long (1.8 m) with hand
and footstraps at each end. The mat can be customised to the client’s specifications if
required. The mats are made of high quality materials in New Zealand by a specialist
upholsterer. They have a five year guarantee.
Morphmat is also a unique exercise method. The trainer uses a mixture of Pilates, ballet
and micro movements to stimulate, align and condition muscles, no matter how unused
to exercise the client is. The exercises are tailored to suit individual needs and
progressively improve the muscular and skeletal structure. Quite short courses of using
and practicing the exercises do result in sustainable bodily changes.
The principle behind the system is that each body is unique and will respond in different
ways to exercise. The trainer offers an initial individual assessment and devises
exercises to support muscles and address vulnerable areas. The number of repetitions is
limited, and the recommendation is that exercise sessions at home should be ‘little and
often’ – two or three times a day on the mat for 10 to 15 minutes. Education in
breathing techniques is part of the program.
Morphmat provides an initial program of 10 hour long sessions, preferably twice a week.
This trains the client in the exercises and will have visible results by the end of the third
week. Clients can expect to see improved posture, alignment of the hips and knees, and
improved co-ordination and stability. Clients are encouraged to exercise often between
sessions with the trainer. The goal is for clients to integrate exercise as an enjoyable
and sustainable part of their daily routine.
The method has tremendous benefits for those experiencing neurological conditions,
recovery from injuries and long term muscle degeneration. The mat can be adapted for
use in a wheelchair, and the method offers clients relief from the effects of muscle
atrophy.
BARRIE ROBERTSON
Barrie’s pathway into developing exercise programs was through his elite classical ballet
background. He was a professional dancer and teacher for many years, then trained as
a Pilates method teacher and masseur. As a result, he has a tremendous understanding
of human movement and how to correct problems and compensations causing the
individual physical harm. He has worked in Australia as well as a number of Asian
countries, and ran a Pilates studio and on-line practice in Singapore for 12 years. His
own life is based on regular exercise and movement, and developing his method to assist
individual clients.
Barrie is currently available to work with clients in Australasia and on-line. His mats are
available to order on the links in the [Sales] page.