In today's fitness world, "Pilates" has become a catch-all term applied to everything from dance-inspired cardio classes to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on reformers. While innovation and variety are not inherently misleading, the term "traditional Pilates" has a specific meaning—one rooted in the original method developed by Joseph Pilates.

Regardless of whether you’re new to Pilates or an experienced practitioner, these six core principles are important to keep in mind as you move through the sequences. Focusing on these principles—concentration, control, centering, flow, precision, breath—will help sharpen and elevate your practice and fortify the mind-body connection. 

This guide will walk you through the foundations of Classical Pilates and how it can benefit your body and mind. Key points include the origins and key principles of classical Pilates, and the standard equipment used in classical Pilates including The Reformer, The Cadillac, The Wunda Chair and The Ladder Barrel. We also discuss the benefits of Classical Pilates and some tips for getting started.