Classical Pilates vs. Contemporary Pilates: What's The Difference?
Pilates is a popular form of exercise known for its focus on core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. However, there are two main approaches within the realm of Pilates: Classical Pilates and Contemporary Pilates. Understanding the distinctions between these two methods can help individuals choose the approach that aligns best with their fitness goals. Let's examine the differences between classical Pilates vs contemporary Pilates and consider what each has to offer.
Classical Pilates vs Contemporary Pilates: Exploring the Core Differences
Distinguishing classical from contemporary Pilates involves understanding their unique approaches and methodologies. Classical Pilates adheres strictly to the original regimen designed by Joseph Pilates.
This form is characterized by a structured sequence of exercises performed on specific apparatuses. The intention is to preserve the integrity of the original movements and philosophies.
It emphasizes the balance between mind and body and the importance of executing each exercise with precision and control.
On the other hand, contemporary Pilates has evolved to incorporate modern exercise science and rehabilitation principles. This approach is more flexible. It allows for modifications of the classical exercises to accommodate individual needs and a contemporary understanding of body mechanics.
Contemporary Pilates also integrates new equipment and exercises that were not originally part of Joseph Pilates's repertoire. These aim to enhance the practice's accessibility and effectiveness for a diverse population.
The core difference lies in the adherence to tradition versus adaptation and innovation. Classical Pilates focuses on maintaining the purity of the original system. On the other hand, contemporary Pilates seeks to apply the foundational principles of Pilates in a way that acknowledges advances in physical therapy and exercise science.
The choice between classical Pilates vs contemporary Pilates ultimately depends on personal preferences, goals, and the specific needs of one's body.
RELATED: Is Pilates Good For Mobility?
The Origins and Philosophy of Classical Pilates
Classical Pilates, developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, maintains the original principles and exercises established by its founder.
Rooted in the belief of mind-body connection and holistic wellness, classical Pilates emphasizes precision, control, and breathwork in every movement.
The Principles of Classical Pilates
Central to classical Pilates are its foundational principles, including concentration, centering, control, precision, breath, and flow.
These principles form the framework for executing exercises, aiming to create a balanced and harmonious relationship between the body and mind.
Key Equipment in Classical Pilates
Classical Pilates often utilizes traditional equipment such as the reformer, Cadillac (also known as the trapeze table), and Wunda chair. These apparatuses provide resistance and support, facilitating proper alignment and engagement of muscles during exercises.
Reformer: The reformer consists of a sliding carriage attached to springs of varying resistance, which can be adjusted according to the user's needs. Users lie, sit, kneel, or stand on the carriage and perform exercises by pushing or pulling against the resistance of the springs. Straps and handles attach to the carriage to provide additional support and assistance for various exercises targeting different muscle groups. Reformer Pilates offers a versatile range of exercises that improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.
Cadillac (Trapeze Table): The Cadillac is a large apparatus featuring a raised, padded table with a metal frame overhead, equipped with bars, straps, and springs. The overhead frame allows for various exercises in different body positions, including lying down, sitting, standing, or hanging. Users can perform exercises using the bars and straps for resistance, assistance, or stabilization, targeting various muscle groups and movement patterns. The Cadillac is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation as it provides support and assistance for users with limited mobility or strength.
Wunda Chair: The Wunda Chair is a compact piece of equipment resembling a padded, elevated chair with springs and pedals. Users sit, stand, or kneel on the chair and perform exercises by pressing down on the pedals against the resistance of the springs. The chair offers a challenging workout for the core, lower body, and upper body, focusing on stability, strength, and control. It can be used for a wide range of exercises targeting specific muscle groups, as well as for dynamic movements that improve coordination and balance.
The Evolution into Contemporary Pilates
Contemporary Pilates represents a modernized approach that integrates elements of classical Pilates with advancements in exercise science and biomechanics.
While still honoring the principles of Pilates, contemporary Pilates incorporates a more diverse range of exercises and equipment.
Integrating Modern Exercise Science
Contemporary Pilates incorporates insights from kinesiology, anatomy, and biomechanics to enhance the effectiveness and safety of exercises.
This integration allows for a more targeted approach to addressing individual needs and goals.
Contemporary Pilates: Equipment and Variations
In addition to traditional Pilates equipment, contemporary Pilates may incorporate props such as stability balls, resistance bands, and foam rollers. These variations offer versatility that you can tailor to accommodate different fitness levels and objectives.
Stability Balls: Also known as exercise balls or Swiss balls, stability balls are large inflatable balls used to perform exercises that challenge balance, stability, and core strength. In Pilates, stability balls can be incorporated into exercises such as seated or lying exercises. In this case, the ball is used as a support surface, or by placing the feet or hands on the ball to add instability. Ultimately, this engages more muscles during exercises like planks or leg lifts.
Resistance Bands: Resistance bands are elastic bands of varying thickness and resistance levels used to provide resistance during exercises. In Pilates, resistance bands can be incorporated into exercises to increase the challenge and intensity. This is particularly true for exercises targeting the arms, legs, and core muscles. They can be used to add resistance to movements such as arm presses, leg lifts, or side bends, providing a full-body workout with increased muscle engagement.
Foam Rollers: Foam rollers are cylindrical pieces of foam used for self-myofascial release and to improve flexibility, balance, and posture. In Pilates, foam rollers are often used as props to enhance balance and stability during exercises, particularly in seated, kneeling, or lying positions. Foam rollers can also be used for exercises that involve rolling or massaging different muscle groups to release tension and improve mobility, such as rolling the spine or massaging the legs.
Classical Pilates vs Contemporary Pilates: Comparing Techniques and Benefits
Classical Pilates emphasizes precise alignment and controlled movements to develop strength, flexibility, and body awareness.
Its structured approach promotes the uniform development of muscles and improves posture and coordination.
The Technique of Classical Pilates
Classical Pilates sessions often follow a structured sequence of exercises. These start with a warm-up and progress through a series of movements targeting different muscle groups.
The emphasis is on quality over quantity. Practitioners are encouraged to focus on proper form and technique rather than simply completing repetitions.
Some key principles and techniques of Classical Pilates include:
Centering: Focus on engaging the "powerhouse," which includes the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, hips, and buttocks, to initiate movement from the core.
Concentration: Paying full attention to each movement and being mindful of body alignment, breathing, and muscle engagement.
Control: Performing exercises with precise control and smooth, fluid movements, avoiding momentum or jerky motions.
Precision: Executing each exercise with attention to detail, ensuring proper alignment and muscle activation for optimal results.
Breath: Coordinating movement with breath, typically inhaling during the preparation phase and exhaling during the exertion phase to facilitate core engagement and enhance relaxation.
Flow: Transitioning smoothly between exercises to maintain a continuous flow of movement and maximize the workout's efficiency.
Whole-body integration: Emphasizing the connection between the mind and body and integrating all muscle groups to promote balanced strength, flexibility, and coordination.
The Adaptability of Contemporary Pilates
Contemporary Pilates offers a more flexible and adaptive approach, allowing for modifications and variations to suit individual needs and preferences.
This adaptability makes it accessible to a wider range of practitioners, including those with specific rehabilitative or fitness goals.
Choosing Your Path: Factors to Consider
Personal Fitness Goals and Preferences
Consider your objectives and preferences when selecting between classical and contemporary Pilates. Classical Pilates may be the ideal choice if you value tradition and structure.
Alternatively, contemporary Pilates could be more suitable if you prefer a more dynamic and customizable approach.
Availability of Classes and Instructors
When deciding between classical and contemporary Pilates classes, you must consider factors such as class availability, instructor expertise, class format, and equipment options that align with your preferences, schedule, and fitness goals.
Considering these factors can help you choose the Pilates classes that best suit your needs and preferences for a rewarding and effective workout experience.
Closing Thoughts: Aligning Pilates with Your Wellness Journey
When considering classical Pilates vs contemporary Pilates, the most important factor is finding a practice that aligns with your wellness journey and supports your overall health and fitness goals.
Both approaches offer unique benefits and can improve strength, flexibility, and well-being.
Explore your options, listen to your body, and embark on your Pilates journey today with 50% OFF Your Initial Body Assessment (single session) at The Pilates Circuit. This is the perfect opportunity to get a taste of the studio and the Pilates Circuit method while getting a workout in.
Take the first step towards a stronger, healthier you!