Why Classical Pilates matters to me

Do you remember when you first fell in love with Pilates?

We all know there are various interpretations of Joseph Pilates’ work but after trialling different schools of Pilates over 25 years ago, I felt most connected with the Classical Method at Cynthia Lochard’s Pilates Method Studio. After my first session with Edwina, I knew immediately it had what I had been looking for. I loved the discipline, the technique, and the way it made my mind work to control my body.  I loved the series of choreographed exercises with a constant flow of movement. The dimensions of the apparatus, the tension of the springs and the drag of the wheels of the reformer made me work and feel my body in a way no other equipment could.

And since that time I have always felt most connected with the Classical method.

The Classical Pilates method focuses heavily on using a series of integrated exercises in its unique ‘System’, ranging from a very basic to a highly advanced level. These exercises/movements involve the whole body. Integration rather than isolation is the key differentiator for me. The Classical method is systematic, performed in sequential order, with low repetitions that focus on dynamics, rhythm and flow to develop strength, endurance and stamina.

Don’t be mistaken, Classical Pilates also serves those requiring rehab and those with specific needs. For instance, I have had the pleasure of teaching my client Sarah for many years with great results! Sarah is, a multiple amputee (ie: loss of limbs above the right knee, below the left knee, below the left elbow and fingers on the right hand due to meningococcal at the age of 19). Sarah is now able to participate with confidence and control in her favourite winter pastime! Snowboarding!

As with many great discoveries, the original Pilates method has been the inspiration for adaptations and variations of Pilates over many years, however as its popularity continues to grow, I fear the original method is becoming diluted.

So how significant or subtle are these variations and what can we learn from studying the original method?

Sure the Classical Pilates method may feel familiar as it focuses on a group of set exercises on the mat and reformer that are repeated in sequence. They then go on to make up a ‘System’ combined with exercises on other pieces of apparatus that are cherry-picked for each individual client based on their needs. I love the way these set exercises are part of a system much like martial arts, dance or other movement disciplines. It’s a discipline, not just an exercise class. Many teachers, however, believe that if they learn and teach ‘the sequence’ then they are teaching ‘Classical’ or Authentic Pilates but that’s not the case.

I really enjoy taking an Instructor and their preconceived notion of what the Classical method is and showing them that there’s more to be discovered than what they may have first thought. It’s so important to try out different methods so we can make an informed decision, then choose our preferred school of Pilates with confidence. There are of course some teachers who have experienced the Classical method, however, prefer using an alternative method of their choice. I believe that every Instructor should find what’s best for them.

Personally, I chose Classical Pilates after experiencing clear differences between the methods of Pilates which included the technique, intricacies of movement, dimensions of equipment, spring tension, the breathing pattern (which is opposite to the contemporary method), and absolutely love the treasure trove of all the wonderful Pilates small apparatus available such as the Neck Stretcher, Breath-a-cizer, Airplane Board, Sand Bag, Push Up Bars, Toe and foot correctors etc. It’s for these reasons I continue the never-ending journey in Classical Pilates.

So what are some of the sorts of things that makes the Classical method distinct from other methods. We focus on things like:

-       We cue for a long spine. Neutral Spine is not something Classical Pilates teachers (CPT’s) cue or work on. We’re careful not to let clients tuck of course, but never neutral spine,

-       We refer to the core as the powerhouse, which incorporates the deep abdominal muscles as well as deep lower back muscles and glutes, not just the abdominal muscles,

-       We inhale as we push the carriage out and exhale on the return as opposed to the opposite (which can only be experienced in studio),

-       On a device like the Reformer, all four springs (not five) are of the same tension on the reformer and only vary from apparatus-to-apparatus. The springs on a classical reformer are designed to slacken an inch before coming all the way back in so that you have to work the “powerhouse” to pull the carriage back to start position with control which makes a client really activate and connect their deep muscle groups. When we combine this work with the breathing technique above it works perfectly in concert. It is impossible to list all the differences here. It’s definitely something that needs to be experienced in a studio setting.

While a number of exercises in the Pilates repertoire are familiar to contemporary teachers, the technique of execution is distinctly different. For many it’s completely opened their eyes to a new way of thinking and getting more from each exercise.

Some of the instructors I have worked with explain it best, for Taren “…it’s completely changed the way I see many of the exercises and deepened my knowledge of the entire system” and for Sandra, she explained “…even though many of the exercises are the same, the breathing pattern is the opposite and the technique is quite different. Its more structured and disciplined.”

What I enjoy most about working with other teachers is seeing them understand a huge change in their own body after working with this method on the classical equipment. I believe that while these instructors continue to teach ‘contemporary’ Pilates they become better teachers having explored and understood more about the Classical system.

So does Classical Pilates matter? It’s a resounding yes from me!

If you’re curious about the Classical method, Olga will be holding a 4-weekend intensive commencing 13th May for comprehensively trained instructors certified in other schools of Pilates or as a refresher for current Classical teachers. She will also be holding a Classical Pilates conference October 2023. You can find out more authenticpilateseducation.com/continuing-professional-education/

To find out more contact info@authenticpilates.com