Classical vs Contemporary Pilates: Do You Really Have to Choose?
- School of Reform
- 21 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you've spent any time in the Pilates industry, you've probably heard the debate.
"I'm classically trained."
"We teach contemporary Pilates."
But does becoming a great Pilates instructor really mean choosing one side?
At School of Reform, we don't think so.
Pilates has evolved
Joseph Pilates created his original method, Contrology, almost 100 years ago, his work laid the foundations for everything we teach today, the original exercises, the apparatus and the six principles continue to influence instructors across the world.
However, our understanding of the human body has evolved dramatically since then.
We now have greater knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, pain science, rehabilitation and movement variability. As instructors, we have access to research Joseph Pilates simply didn't have.
The question therefore isn't whether Classical or Contemporary Pilates is better.
The question is: how can we use both to become better teachers?
What is Classical Pilates?
Classical Pilates stays closely aligned to Joseph Pilates' original work.
Classes generally follow a set order, using traditional exercises and clear progressions through the repertoire, many instructors value its consistency, discipline and respect for the original method.
What is Contemporary Pilates?
Contemporary Pilates builds upon Joseph's foundations while incorporating modern movement science. Exercises may be adapted to suit different bodies, injuries, sporting demands or individual goals, rather than following one fixed sequence, instructors have greater flexibility to programme sessions around the client standing in front of them.
Classical vs Contemporary Pilates: so which is right?
At School of Reform, we believe the answer is both. When it comes to Classical vs Contemporary Pilates, the choice does not need to be either/or.
Understanding the classical repertoire gives instructors a deep appreciation of where Pilates came from. Understanding contemporary movement gives instructors the confidence to adapt intelligently for real people with real bodies, neither exists without the other.
A dynamic education
That's why we've developed our education programmes differently.
Across both our Reformer Teacher Training and our Level 3 Mat Pilates qualification, students learn the foundations of Pilates while developing the critical thinking needed to teach confidently.
We teach:
the history of Pilates and the original principles
classical exercise repertoire
contemporary exercise adaptations
anatomy and biomechanics
movement analysis
programming and progression
client communication and cueing
how to modify exercises safely and effectively
Rather than asking instructors to memorise choreography, we encourage them to understand movement because every client who walks through the studio door is different.
Teaching the person, not just the exercise
Our goal isn't to produce instructors who simply know hundreds of exercises, our goal is to develop teachers who understand why an exercise is appropriate, when it should be progressed, when it should be regressed and how to create meaningful movement experiences for every client.
That's what makes a great instructor and that's the future of Pilates education.
Classical vs Contemporary Pilates: which approach should you choose?
At School of Reform, we don’t believe great teaching comes from choosing one side and ignoring the other. A strong Pilates education gives you the foundations, principles and critical thinking skills to understand both approaches - and the confidence to teach the person in front of you.
Whether you’re drawn to Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates or both, our teacher training courses are designed to help you build knowledge, confidence and adaptability as an instructor.
Explore our Pilates teacher training courses to find the pathway that feels right for you.
