Structural work
Rolfing® Structural Integration
Precise, responsive touch is used to explore how different parts of the body relate to and support one another. Movement may be included to connect the work with standing, walking and daily activity.
Rolfing® Structural Integration · Rolf Movement · Movement classes
Move more freely in everyday life.
Individual structural work and movement education for pain, tension and limited mobility, tailored to your goals and the way you move.
Oberägeri, Canton of Zug, Switzerland
Is this for you?
When pain or limited mobility gets in the way.
The work may be relevant in situations such as:
- 01
Pain or tension that affects comfort in everyday life.
- 02
Limited mobility or difficulty moving freely.
- 03
Movement demands related to posture, sport, training or daily activities.
The work
Structural work and movement education, tailored to you.
Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement are distinct, complementary ways of working. The emphasis may be placed more on structure or on movement, depending on what you want to explore.
Movement education
Rolf Movement
Guided experiments, active movement and, when useful, touch help you notice habits and explore other possibilities for coordination, support and ease.
Private movement classes
Movement classes for one or two people.
Development-inspired sequences to explore movement, body awareness, mobility and dynamic posture.
Physiotherapist · Structural and Movement Rolfer
About Franco
Experience across physiotherapy, sport and movement.
A professional background spanning physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, manual therapy, movement and structural integration, with experience in Brazil and Switzerland.
Fifteen years of professional practice in Brazil were followed by continued work and study in Switzerland. Early experience with high-performance athletes, together with a background in sport and martial arts, shaped an interest in how posture, coordination and habitual movement influence the way each person uses the body.
- 2005
Completed a degree in physiotherapy in Brazil.
- 2007
Began studying Rolfing® Structural Integration.
- 2007
Studied and worked as a physiotherapist and instructor with Menegatti Movimento Fluente in Ilhabela, Brazil.
- 2009
Qualified as a Structural and Movement Rolfer.
- 2010
Began working as a collaborating physiotherapist and co-owner at Delune in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (learn more)
- 2020
Moved to Switzerland and continued professional practice.
Rolfing® Structural Integration
A whole-body approach to posture and movement.
Rolfing® Structural Integration combines manual bodywork and movement education, with attention to fascia, movement patterns and sensory awareness.
Gravity is always acting on the body. When some areas have to compensate for others, standing and moving may require more effort. Rolfing looks at these relationships across the whole body and explores how support and movement can become more balanced and adaptable.
Why gravity matters
The body continually organises itself in relation to gravity. More effective support can reduce unnecessary effort in posture and movement.
Why the whole body matters
A restriction in one area may influence how another area organises support and movement. The work therefore considers connections throughout the body rather than one area in isolation.
Rolfing® Structural Integration is a complementary method of bodywork and movement education. It does not replace medical assessment or physiotherapy when these are required.
FAQ
Practical questions before a first session.
A few things you may want to know before getting in touch.
What is the difference between Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement?
Structural Integration places greater emphasis on the organisation of the body and uses precise manual touch as a central part of the session. Rolf Movement focuses on how movement is perceived, coordinated and organised through guided active exploration. The two approaches are distinct but complementary.
How many sessions are suggested?
The 10-session Structural Integration series and the five-session Rolf Movement sequence are suggestions, not compulsory packages. Sessions are adapted to your goals and needs.
How long does a session take, and what should I wear?
Structural Integration and Rolf Movement sessions usually last 60 minutes. The first Structural Integration appointment may take up to 90 minutes for assessment and an introduction to the work. For Structural Integration, please wear lightweight or sports clothing.
What does a Structural Integration session cost?
Rolfing® Structural Integration costs CHF 180 per hour.
Why is it called Rolfing®?
The method takes its name from Dr. Ida P. Rolf, an American biochemist who developed Structural Integration. Her central question was how the body could organise itself in relation to gravity so that standing and moving could become more economical. Over time, her name became associated with the method now known as Rolfing® Structural Integration.
Can supplementary health insurance reimburse the sessions?
Franco Cardinale is an ASCA-recognised and EMR-registered therapist. Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement sessions may be eligible for reimbursement through Swiss supplementary health insurance (Zusatzversicherung), depending on your policy and the insurer’s recognition of the treatment method and therapist.
Please check with your insurer before your first appointment to confirm coverage for the specific treatment method and therapist.
Are movement classes covered by health insurance?
No. Movement classes are a private service and are not reimbursed by health insurance.
How is Rolfing® different from massage or physiotherapy?
Massage often focuses on relaxation or muscular tension in specific areas, while physiotherapy is a healthcare profession concerned with movement and functional ability in relation to injury, illness, pain or reduced physical function. Rolfing® is a complementary method with a particular whole-body focus on structure, movement, sensory awareness and the body’s relationship with gravity.
Where do sessions take place?
Sessions take place in Oberägeri, Canton of Zug, Switzerland, about a one-minute walk from a bus stop. There is a private garage and lift access at the location. Ask about arrival and parking when arranging a session.
How can a session be arranged?
To ask a question or arrange a session, send a message on WhatsApp or email francocardina@yahoo.com.br.
Contact
Start with a conversation.
Ask a question or learn more about individual sessions in Oberägeri.