Proudly Classical

If you are new to Pilates you may not even know there is somewhat of a split in the Pilates world – Classical and Contemporary. Classical Pilates refers to the original system of exercises and principles developed by Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method, which he named Contrology. We believe that this is the only Pilates that can truly be called Pilates. It encompasses a specific set of exercises designed to improve strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

The key characteristics of Classical Pilates include:

👉 Authenticity: Classical Pilates adheres as closely as possible to the original exercises and teachings of Joseph Pilates thus preserving the integrity of his method.

👉Education: A Classical Pilates teacher can trace their lineage to Joseph Pilates himself, today via Romana or Jay & the teachers they trained. They will have undertaken an apprenticeship style training lasting more than a year with many hours of observations and self-practice culminating in an extensive qualifying examination. Did you know you can do an online weekend course and call yourself a Pilates Teacher!

👉Traditional Equipment: Classical Pilates uses traditional equipment built to the designs of Joseph Pilates; such as the Universal Reformer, Wunda Chair, Cadillac, guillotine, foot corrector and many more. Many contemporary mat teachers have not experienced this amazing equipment which offers the resistance of springs to draw the very best from your exercises in order to help you to do the matwork better.

👉Sequential Progression: The exercises in Classical Pilates are performed in a specific order or sequence with each exercise building upon the previous one to create a comprehensive and integrated workout. In the more modern world, the teacher creates their own sequence of movements and often uses exercises not traceable back to the original sequence.

👉Focus on core strength: Core strength and stability are central to Classical Pilates. All movement is from the inside out!

👉Mind-body connection and balance: Classical Pilates emphasizes the importance of concentration, control, precision, breath and precise movement. We work the body in balance - working the body as a whole.

👉System: Classical Pilates is designed as a system. The Classical Pilates teacher will have knowledge of the whole spectrum of apparatus and mat based work.

Practicing Classical Pilates can lead to ⭐improved posture ⭐increased muscular endurance ⭐enhanced flexibility. It is exercise that is both simple in concept but challenging, invigorating, energising and sweaty 😅

While variations and modifications exist within the Contemporary community, Classical Pilates remains true to the foundational principles and exercises developed by Joseph Pilates over a century ago. The teacher will know which exercises to give or leave out for each body (from someone new to Pilates to a dedicated practitioner), how to use the equipment available to improve stability, strength and flexibility and more importantly how to get the best out of you so you continue to improve session by session.

If you want a true Pilates experience find 👍A dedicated studio/teacher with extensive training 👍Authentic equipment designed by respected manufacturers who use the dimenions specified in Joe Pilates’ patents eg Gratz Pilates, Pilates Designs, Pilates Lineage 👍Ask what their training is, how long it took and who they undertook their apprenticeship with 👍If possible take private 1:1 lessons (some Classical studios will offer small group sessions to make Pilates more accessible but private and studio sessions are the best way to learn).

Of course you can always come and meet us, say hello, take a look at the studio and maybe book yourself in! Click the button below to get in touch.