Why I Love Classical Pilates

With so much talk about Pilates right now, I thought it would be the perfect time to share why I love Classical Pilates.

When I walked into my first Pilates session with my sister, I never imagined it would change my life. What started as one class quickly turned into a passion, and before I knew it, I wanted to share the love of Pilates with others.

Now, don't get me wrong—I'm a big believer that all movement is good movement. I have nothing against other styles of Pilates, but Classical Pilates has truly won my heart. It has changed my body in ways I never expected, and I've had the privilege of watching it transform my clients' bodies as well.

So, what is Classical Pilates?

Classical Pilates is the original physical fitness system developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, which he called Contrology.

At its core, Classical Pilates is a system. Rather than focusing on individual muscles in isolation, it teaches your body to move as one connected unit. Each exercise has a purpose and builds upon the next, creating strength, balance, coordination, control, and body awareness. One of the things I love most is that it strengthens what is underdeveloped while helping to release and balance what is overdeveloped.

Romana Kryzanowska, the renowned protégé of Joseph Pilates, beautifully described Pilates in three words: "Stretch, with Strength and Control." I think that simple phrase perfectly captures what Classical Pilates is all about.

One thing I hear a lot is that Classical Pilates is repetitive or that the exercises are outdated. I don't see it that way at all.

Yes, there is a specific order to the exercises—but that's because it is a system. Each exercise prepares your body for the next, helping your body and brain develop better movement patterns. Repetition isn't about doing the same thing for the sake of it. It's how we learn, how we improve, and how lasting change happens.

Think about it this way—we've been doing squats, lunges, bicep curls, and push-ups for years. No one says those exercises are outdated because they're foundational movements that work. Pilates is no different.

As an instructor, I don't teach the same workout to every person who walks through my door. I teach the person in front of me. Every body is different, every session is different, and every client has different goals, strengths, injuries, and needs. The Classical method gives me a roadmap, but I tailor each lesson to meet my clients where they are that day.

The Pilates industry has evolved over the years, and there are now many different styles and approaches. While I'm happy more people are discovering Pilates, I've chosen to continue studying the Classical method because I truly believe in it. I know it works because I have experienced it myself, and I have the privilege of watching it change my clients' bodies and the way they move every day. I see people standing taller, moving with less pain, becoming stronger, and gaining confidence in their bodies. That is why I continue to study, learn, and deepen my understanding of this method.

I'm incredibly grateful to my mentors for preserving Joseph Pilates' work and sharing it with me. Their guidance has shaped the teacher I am today, and I feel honored to pass that knowledge on to my clients.

Another thing I love about Classical Pilates is its consistency. Because it follows a system, I can walk into a Classical Pilates studio almost anywhere in the world and know what's going on. I've been fortunate enough to take lessons in different countries, and while every instructor brings their own personality and teaching style, the foundation remains the same. I think that's something really special.

One of the greatest lessons Pilates has taught me is that it's a journey, not a destination. There is always something new to learn, another connection to discover, and another way to grow. That's what keeps me inspired as both a student and a teacher.

So, why do I love Classical Pilates?

Because it's more than just a workout. It's a method that has changed the way I move, the way I teach, and the way I understand the body. It's not about chasing perfection—it's about moving with intention, respecting where your body is today, and trusting the process.

I'm so grateful that Joseph Pilates created this incredible method over 100 years ago, and I'm even more grateful that I get to share it with each of my clients. Classical Pilates has given me a stronger body, a lifelong practice of learning, and a career that I truly love. I can't wait to continue learning, teaching, and sharing this incredible method for years to come.

Until next time, keep moving.

Erica 🦋