What’s the Difference Between Classical and Contemporary Pilates in Chicago?
If you’ve been thinking about starting Pilates, or you’re already a fan, you’ve probably heard of the two main styles: classical and contemporary Pilates. While both are great ways to improve your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness, they have some key differences that can help you decide which one is the right fit for your goals.
Pilates has come a long way since its creation by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Classical Pilates sticks closely to his original method, while contemporary Pilates has evolved, incorporating modern techniques and equipment. Let’s break down the differences between these two styles and help you figure out which one might be best for your workout routine.
Origins and Philosophy
Classical Pilates is all about staying true to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates. The method emphasizes control, precision, and breathwork, with a strong focus on core strength and body alignment. In classical Pilates, you’ll follow a specific sequence of exercises, often in the same order, as Joseph Pilates originally designed them. The goal here is consistency—doing the same exercises repeatedly to master them and build strength over time.
On the other hand, contemporary Pilates has a more flexible approach. While it’s still based on Joseph Pilates’ principles, contemporary Pilates incorporates modern knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics. This allows for more variations and adjustments to suit different fitness levels, body types, or injury recovery needs. Instead of sticking to the traditional sequence, contemporary Pilates often adapts the exercises to fit the individual or the class setting, making it a bit more adaptable and customizable.
Key Techniques and Movements
In classical Pilates, the focus is on mastering the original 34 mat exercises that Joseph Pilates developed. These exercises emphasize core strength, full-body control, and fluid movements. Classical Pilates is all about maintaining the flow between exercises, making sure that transitions are smooth, and keeping a consistent rhythm. It’s an intense, focused workout that leaves little room for improvisation.
With contemporary Pilates, there’s more flexibility in the types of movements you’ll practice. While core strength and body control remain at the heart of the practice, contemporary Pilates incorporates more modern techniques, blending in movements from physical therapy, yoga, and other fitness disciplines. This makes it a bit more accessible, especially for people who might be recovering from injuries or looking for a more varied routine.
Equipment and Props
Classical Pilates uses the original equipment designed by Joseph Pilates, including the Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair. These machines are used to assist with movements and provide resistance, helping you build strength while maintaining proper alignment. In classical Pilates, you’re likely to stick with these core pieces of equipment, along with the mat exercises.
Contemporary Pilates, however, introduces more variety when it comes to equipment and props. In addition to the traditional machines, you might use modern props like foam rollers, Pilates rings, resistance bands, and stability balls. These tools allow for more variety in exercises and make Pilates accessible to a wider range of people, including those with physical limitations or specific fitness goals. The use of props can make contemporary Pilates both more supportive and more challenging, depending on your level.
Teaching Styles and Class Structure
If you’re looking for structure and consistency, classical Pilates is where you’ll find it. Classes tend to follow a set routine of exercises, and the teaching style often focuses on precision and mastery. Classical Pilates often involves one-on-one sessions or small group classes to ensure that every movement is executed perfectly. You’ll get hands-on guidance from your instructor, helping you refine your technique.
In contrast, contemporary Pilates classes offer a bit more variety. You’ll find a mix of individual and group classes, and the routines are often more dynamic and adaptable. In a contemporary Pilates class, the instructor might tailor the exercises to fit the group’s specific needs, offering modifications or variations for different levels of fitness. This makes contemporary Pilates a great choice if you enjoy variety in your workouts or if you need specific modifications due to an injury or fitness level.
Health and Fitness Benefits
When it comes to benefits, both classical and contemporary Pilates are excellent choices for improving strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. But they each have their unique focus.
Classical Pilates is known for building a strong core and improving posture. The consistent routine helps you develop a deep understanding of body alignment and control, which can enhance not just your Pilates practice but also your daily movements. If you love the idea of mastering a set routine and improving your body control, classical Pilates is the way to go.
Contemporary Pilates offers a broader approach to fitness. Because it incorporates movements from other disciplines, it can target a wider range of fitness goals, from flexibility and balance to strength and injury rehabilitation. Contemporary Pilates is great for people who want a well-rounded workout that adjusts to their specific needs.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you’re someone who appreciates structure, discipline, and consistency, classical Pilates might be a perfect fit. It’s ideal for people who want to work on perfecting their technique and enjoy following a set routine that allows them to track their progress over time. It’s also great for those who want a direct connection to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates.
On the flip side, contemporary Pilates is for those who enjoy flexibility and variety in their workouts. If you’re looking for a workout that can adapt to your specific needs—whether it’s recovering from an injury, building strength, or just trying something new—contemporary Pilates gives you that freedom. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy exploring different movements and incorporating props into your routine.
Conclusion
Both classical and contemporary Pilates offer fantastic health benefits, but their approaches and techniques vary in ways that can appeal to different fitness goals and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the precision and tradition of classical Pilates or the adaptability and innovation of contemporary Pilates, there’s no wrong choice—it’s all about what works best for you.
At Sandy Greiner Pilates, we offer both classical and contemporary Pilates to meet the needs of all our clients. Whether you want to stick to the fundamentals or explore a more modern take on the practice, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Try out both styles and see which one resonates with your body and fitness journey!