What Traditional Pilates is *Not*
Exercise trends are ever-changing. Technology, human innovation and evolving cultural norms play a part in how exercise has developed over the decades. Consider the Victorian idea that women sporting visible muscles was “unacceptable” and “unladylike” and compare that with today’s female Crossfitters. Variation in fitness throughout the years is predictable and has contributed to a number of innovative and wildly successful new pastimes (Pickleball, anyone?).
We’re all for embracing the next big thing. However, it can be useful to define an experience—particularly a trend that blends elements from a number of different forms of movement—by comparing it with the original. 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.
If you're seeking an approach to Pilates based on the original sequences, it may be helpful to think about what traditional Pilates is not.
It’s Not Reformer Aerobics
Remember the 1980s? The gusto of teal leotards, magenta headbands and the power of women from all walks of life engaging in a freestyle step-ball-change to “Pump up the Jam”? The idea was movement, manifested. The idea was aerobics in all its glory. Aerobics inspired a number of athletic offshoots including Jazzercize, step aerobics, water aerobics and even Zumba. We embrace movement in all its forms, so if you’re into the upbeat music and choreographed dynamics, we support it!
However, just because you're sweating on a reformer doesn't mean you're doing Pilates. Traditional Pilates isn't about speed or burning the most calories in the shortest amount of time. In fact, rushing through the movements in Pilates dilutes their effectiveness and misses the whole point. Traditional Pilates emphasizes precision, control, breath and flow. The reformer is a tool—not a treadmill. Movements are meant to be deliberate and purposeful, not done in a flurry to music or dictated by a calorie tracker.
It’s Not Dance (Even If It Looks Graceful)
Yes, many Pilates exercises appear elegant, and yes, dancers have long used Pilates to build strength and prevent injury. (See our post on how Pilates and dance can go hand in hand!) But Pilates is not, in itself, a form of dance. Here’s the good news: you don’t need rhythm, choreography or a performance mindset to try Pilates!
Traditional Pilates is a system of functional movements designed to support your whole body—from your posture to your joints to your spine. Grace might come as a byproduct of a dedicated practice, but it’s not the end goal. Alignment, stability and strength are prized above rhythm and turnout.
It’s Not Acrobatics
The more advanced levels of Pilates can look incredibly impressive, particularly the complicated series of hanging and pulling exercises performed on the Cadillac. It’s tempting to compare advanced Pilates sequences to that of a trapeze artist executing a double layout or a gymnast completing a perfect Pak salto on the uneven bars. However, Pilates isn’t about breathtaking, Olympic-level acrobatics.
Advanced Pilates sequences are built progressively, from a strong foundation, and only introduced when the body is ready. Traditional Pilates does not inherently prize airborne power moves. It’s about building core integrity and muscular balance.
It’s Not Trendy—But That’s Okay
Though Pilates has inspired a number of upbeat offshoots, traditional Pilates itself doesn’t change with the fitness trends. It doesn’t rely on the latest playlist, equipment upgrade or Instagram aesthetic. The method has stood the test of time for a reason: it works. If you see photos of Pilates in practice from the early twentieth century, you may recognize The Hundred, The Roll Up or Single Leg Circles—movements which are still fundamental to Pilates today.
If you're doing traditional Pilates, you're practicing a system that's been thoughtfully designed and time-tested. It’s a complete body conditioning method with internal logic and structure—not a mashup of whatever's popular this season.
So, What Is Traditional Pilates?
Traditional Pilates (sometimes called Classical Pilates) is the original method developed by Joseph Pilates, rooted in a specific order of exercises, consistent principles, and a whole-body approach to movement. It includes mat work and apparatus work (Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and more), all integrated in a progressive system.
It is:
Systematic and intentional
Centered on breath, control and precision
Built to support posture, spine health and total body strength
Adaptable to every body, regardless of age or fitness level
If you've tried Pilates and found it to be just another trendy workout, you might not have experienced the “real” thing. Traditional Pilates is not reformer aerobics, dance, or acrobatics. It’s something deeper and more powerful—a method designed to realign, strengthen and transform your body from the inside out.
The Pilates Spectrum
As we’ve discussed, Pilates exists on a spectrum from traditional to a variety of modified and melded forms. Understanding that range can help you select the style that best aligns with your needs. Contemporary Pilates allows for modifications and flexibility and may not adhere to the exact teachings of Joseph Pilates. Fusion Pilates takes more liberties than traditional forms and may incorporate a more fitness-oriented approach.
It’s useful to understand these differences so that you can determine what you want out of your workout and what approach will help you meet your fitness goals. If you’re looking for a more traditional approach based in Classical Pilates, check out The Pilates Room NYC! With an intimate and noncompetitive environment, our studio lets you focus on your needs and goals at your own pace. Reach out to us now and get 15% off your first one-on-one Pilates session.