What is Classical Pilates? A Beginner's Guide

If you’re interested in trying out Pilates, a simple Google search for a nearby studio may have stopped you in your tracks. Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, contemporary Pilates, fusion classes—what do they all mean, and how can you find the type of Pilates that’s right for you? As it happens, there are many different approaches to Pilates, and it’s important to find the method and the studio that works best for you. 

In this post we’ll be focusing on Classical Pilates, which most closely adheres to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates, the creator of the method. Whether you’re new to Pilates or just curious about what makes this approach unique, this guide will walk you through the foundations of Classical Pilates and how it can benefit your body and mind.

The Origins of Classical Pilates  

Classical Pilates traces its roots back to everyone’s favorite 20th century German-born physical trainer: Joseph Pilates. Pilates, who started his exercise journey as a boxer (and circus performer!) designed his training method to focus on strength, flexibility, and body awareness (which are fundamental in the boxing ring, and presumably the circus ring as well). Classical Pilates maintains a strict adherence to Pilates' original recipe, which dictates specific movements and sequencing and adheres to his original philosophy. As Joseph saw it, exercise wasn’t simply about hitting the gym to get shredded. He approached exercise from a more holistic angle. Joe envisioned a workout that emphasized the coordination between the mind and body with the ultimate goal of developing the strength and flexibility to allow a practitioner to move efficiently and gracefully through space.

Key Principles of Classical Pilates  

Out of Joseph Pilates’ philosophical concerns and specifically developed movement patterns comes Classical Pilates, a method built around around six core principles:  

1. Concentration – Bringing attention and awareness to each movement  

2. Control – Performing exercises with precision and intentionality  

3. Centering – Engaging the core (the body’s “powerhouse”) to initiate every movement  

4. Flow – Moving seamlessly from one exercise to the next  

5. Precision – Perfecting each movement through practice  

6. Breath – Using breath to power movements and maintain focus  

These principles foreground the mind-body connection that Joseph Pilates valued. Each of the six core principles require attention and intention. The mind must be engaged as much as the muscles to develop a complete practice.    

The Classical Pilates Equipment  

Joseph Pilates was the type of trainer that, having not found the standard, run-of-the-mill, 20th century weight machines up to snuff, decided to design his own training equipment…kind of makes your boot camp instructor seem like a loafer. Here are some of the machines that Pilates developed to enlist the type of specialized movement patterns he was looking for:  

The Reformer – A sliding carriage system that uses springs for resistance  

The Cadillac – A versatile table with bars, springs, and straps for full-body conditioning  

The Wunda Chair – A compact piece that challenges both strength and balance  

The Ladder Barrel – A tool for stretching and spine articulation  

The equipment might look intimidating, but each apparatus offers a range of challenges and a variety of movements to help practitioners dial in core strength and flexibility while adding variety to their exercise routines.

Who is Classical Pilates For?  

Though each apparatus in the Classical Pilates world might seem intimidating, Pilates is appropriate for practitioners at any point in their fitness journey. Anyone who is new to Pilates, or new to exercise in general is a good candidate for Classical Pilates, as are those who identify as high-performance athletes. Pilates offers benefits for a wide range of ages and abilities.

Exercises in Classical Pilates can be modified or intensified based on individual needs. Because Pilates offers a low-impact and highly effective workout, it’s appropriate for those who are recovering from injury, or looking to build core strength and improve mobility. Pilates is also important for promoting spinal alignment and helping develop overall body awareness to contribute to better posture. Dancers and other athletes often practice Pilates as a form of cross-training to help supplement strength training and prevent injury.  

The Benefits of Classical Pilates

Practicing Classical Pilates consistently offers numerous physical and mental benefits:  

- Improves posture and alignment by strengthening the muscles that support the spine  

- Develops core strength and stability, reducing the risk of injury  

- Enhances flexibility through controlled stretches  

- Relieves tension and helps combat stress through mindful breathing and body awareness 

- Builds endurance with low-impact, full-body conditioning  

Many practitioners note that they feel taller, lighter, and more centered after just a few sessions.

Tips for Getting Started with Classical Pilates  

It’s important that you feel safe and supported during your Pilates session. Look for an instructor who asks for feedback and creates a program based on your goals. Make sure to ask questions and communicate your objectives and physical limitations. And keep at it! Like most forms of exercise, Pilates is a practice that requires repetition and consistency. Here are a few things to remember as you begin your Classical Pilates practice: 

1. Start with Private Sessions  

If you’re new to Pilates, working one-on-one with a certified instructor can help you learn the fundamentals with proper technique.  

2. Focus on Consistency  

Pilates is most effective when practiced regularly. Start with several sessions a week to build strength and body awareness.  

3. Be Patient with Your Progress  

Mastering the precise movements of Classical Pilates takes time. Stay patient, and trust the process—you’ll feel the benefits as you go!  

Join us at The Pilates Room NYC

Classical Pilates offers more than just a workout—it’s a mind-body practice that builds strength, enhances mobility, and promotes mindful movement. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your core, improve your posture, or simply move more freely and efficiently, Classical Pilates provides a path to achieving those goals.

If you’re in NYC, we’d love to help you get started on your Pilates journey with a private session. Take the first step towards feeling stronger, more aligned, and energized from the inside out!