The Ballet-Inspired Reformer Workout Making Waves: Pilates & Or
Pilates has long been a tool for dancers to maintain strength and prevent injuries, but Or Kahlon, a former professional ballet soloist, is redefining how the worlds of dance and Pilates intersect. With studios in Santa Barbara, California and Boca Raton, Florida, as well as a growing online community, Or’s unique approach blends ballet techniques with contemporary Pilates, creating a reformer workout unlike any other.
"I started my journey with ballet when I received a scholarship to attend the Thelma Yellin School of Arts in Tel Aviv at 15 years old," Or shares. "Coming from a small town, nothing was easy for me. I had to persevere and work incredibly hard to achieve my dreams."
After winning the first season of So You Think You Can Dance - Israel, and training at Juilliard, Or went on to perform as a soloist with Compañía Nacional de Danza in Spain and the world-renowned Nederlands Dans Theater. Despite an illustrious career in dance, Pilates remained a constant in his life.
"I had used the Pilates reformer throughout my ballet career for conditioning and rehabilitation, and it became a passion. My transition into being a teacher really came from my community, who sought out my knowledge of movement. What started as a home studio quickly grew into something much larger."
Ballet-Inspired Pilates: A Fusion of Strength and Grace
Or’s approach to Pilates is deeply rooted in his ballet background, emphasizing fluidity, alignment, and musicality.
"Ballet is who I am," he explains. "It has given me a sharp eye for aesthetics and the correct technique to perform movements. In my classes, I use the Pilates reformer as a tool, but what I do on it is a reflection of my personal movement style. I teach Pilates with an emphasis on precision, control, and awareness, ensuring my students feel both challenged and supported."
Some key elements of Or’s contemporary Pilates method include:
Breath and movement synchronization – just like in ballet, every motion is intentional and fluid.
Focus on posture, stability, and stamina – core elements for both dancers and everyday movers.
Musicality-driven sessions – students move in harmony with music, enhancing mind-body connection.
"I often call my students dancers," he says. "Even if they have never danced before, I want them to experience movement with grace and control."
The Evolution of Pilates and Or’s Impact on the Industry
The Pilates industry has transformed significantly since Or began his journey. Once seen primarily as a rehabilitation method, it it continues to grow into a fitness movement, embraced by people from all backgrounds.
"Like every art that starts with a strong foundation, Pilates has evolved tremendously," Or says. "In the beginning, it was perceived as something for older adults or injury recovery. Now, with platforms like Instagram and YouTube, it has become so much more."
Or has played a role in driving this evolution by blending ballet principles with modern Pilates techniques, making the practice not just a workout but a form of artistic movement.
"I have worked to make Pilates an art form, accessible and inspiring for everyone. Whether in my studios or through our online program, I want people to see that Pilates is more than just exercise—it’s a way to transform how they move and feel in their bodies."
A Transformative Approach: Real Client Results
Or’s fusion of ballet and Pilates has profoundly impacted many clients, including former professional dancers recovering from injuries.
"One client who stands out is a dancer who suffered a significant back injury. Specialists told her she might never regain her full range of motion. Through my method, we rebuilt her strength and alignment while keeping the elegance and flow she loved from dance."
After months of training, she not only recovered but also found a deeper appreciation for movement. "She returned to performing and told me the experience gave her a newfound connection to her body. That reaffirmed for me the power of blending disciplines to create truly transformative results."
What’s Next for Pilates & Or?
Or is taking his Pilates & Or brand to new heights with expanded online programs, international workshops, and even custom-designed Pilates equipment.
"We recently launched our first international training program in Mexico City, and it sold out in a week! We are also collaborating with manufacturers to create studio-quality Pilates reformers for home use, perfectly complementing our on-demand workouts."
As he continues to innovate and inspire, Or remains dedicated to showcasing Pilates as both an art and a transformative wellness journey."Pilates is more than a workout," he emphasizes. "It’s a way to move, feel, and live with intention."