When I first began studying Pilates in 2000, I had no idea what the difference between Classical and Contemporary was. For me, it was just Pilates. I lived in Australia then, and there were no other Pilates studios around, so I had nothing to compare it to. Nowadays things are different, so many Pilates studios are around, but they vary in style so much. So often I get asked about the difference between Classical and Contemporary Pilates especially since my studio transitioned from Contemporary Pilates to Classical Pilates.
Classical Pilates adheres strictly to the teachings of the original work of Joseph Pilates. His approach was to use all of the apparatus – the Cadillac, Reformer, Chair, Ring, Armchair, and more – as a system of exercises and equipment to correct asymmetry, misalignment, and dysfunction. When Joe’s Pilates exercises are executed using his method, that is called Contrology. When his exercises are taught randomly, the goals of his method miss their mark.
Since Mr. Pilates died in 1967 his methodology is mostly taught by individuals who studied directly with him (Elders or First-Generation teachers). Second-generation teachers who were fortunate enough to have studied with one or more of the Elders who helped keep his work and spirit alive, are trying to remain very true to the original work.
Pilates is a corrective exercise as Joe Pilates called it and it should be individual to every person. Ideally, Pilates should be done privately or in small groups where the client does the routine that he/she has learned in the private lessons.
For Pilates to do its magic, the teacher must be able to choose the correct exercises for every person. Also, there are no levels in Classical Pilates. As Jay Grimes said, “There are no levels in Pilates, only suitable exercises”.
Each person will progress through the Pilates repertoire at a different speed. People come with different mindsets and expectations. You are learning to think less with your head and more with your body and concentrate on how the body feels when it moves.
Classical Pilates is a lifelong endeavor! Rarely will someone nail the exercises on the first try, even if it appears to look good or the individual is strong and ripped. That is the beauty of Pilates as well. The work is constantly evolving and the only way to perfect anything is to continue to practice it.
Contemporary Pilates – has evolved to incorporate modern exercise science and rehabilitation principles. This approach allows for modifications of the classical exercises to accommodate individual needs and a contemporary understanding of body mechanics. Contemporary Pilates also integrates new equipment and exercises that were not originally part of Joseph Pilates’s repertoire.
Most Contemporary Pilates studios offer group classes where the teacher instructs clients all at the same time. The instructors may incorporate a blend of Pilates principles (which are not present in Classical Pilates) with elements from other movement modalities such as yoga, dance, or physical therapy. Instruction may be more varied, with an emphasis on functional movement patterns and alignment.
To my disappointment, I notice that Contemporary Pilates is moving so far away from the original method, that soon it will no longer be recognizable.
Whether you choose Classical or Contemporary Pilates, the practice can have a profound impact on your health and fitness.
Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences, goals, and needs. Whether you prefer the structured discipline of classical Pilates or the adaptable nature of contemporary Pilates, both offer valuable benefits for improving strength, flexibility, and overall well-being.
My approach to Pilates today is very much rooted in the Classical tradition. If you are interested in getting started with Classical Pilates, schedule a New Client Intro class with us and get started!