Understanding Classical Pilates in Brighton

The term Classical Pilates often raises many questions. In this blog post, I aim to clear up any confusion surrounding its concepts and practices, which have been developed and refined by Joseph Pilates.

What is Classical Pilates?

Classical Pilates is a discipline created by Joseph Pilates, a renowned physical fitness exponent and yoga pioneer. The exercises in this practice have been developed over time on various apparatus designed by Joseph Pilates himself. Among these are the Reformer, Cadillac, Barrels, Ped#8211;Pole, and Magic Circle. Each of these tools was designed to provide users with the necessary resistance and feedback to achieve length in the spine, open stretches, and toning of the body.

Distinguishing Classical Pilates from Other Variants

While today's Pilates market includes many variations of The Method, these forms are often misinterpreted. They may focus on core work, stability, and physio-based exercises, but they are not genuine Pilates classes. The true success of Pilates lies in its full system, encompassing both the mat and the studio apparatus. Joseph's system of exercises is meticulously designed to work all ranges of movement of the body, with the mat work serving as homework for studio work. As the practitioner advances, they are introduced to more challenging exercises, leading to a more cardio-based workout as new exercises are integrated into the class without altering the overall structure.

How Joseph Pilates Taught

Joseph Pilates would begin each session by guiding clients through the entire studio, working the full system on all the apparatus. He would then teach them mat work, which they would practice at home and bring to the next session for further improvement. This methodical approach led to tremendous progress, making Pilates a highly effective and popular fitness regimen.

Class Offerings at Brighton Pilates

My classes at Brighton Pilates range from the true method: Classical Mat, to HIT Pilates. HIT Pilates, while still offering benefits, would be unfamiliar to Joseph Pilates. These classes are essentially hybrid forms that provide a modern twist on an effective method. Of course, not everyone seeks the traditional approach. I also offer Contemporary Mat classes, which incorporate key Pilates principles, but with a different structure, using bands and balls that were not traditionally part of Joseph's regimen.

Delivering Fun and Varied Classes

The goal at Brighton Pilates is to offer classes that entice everyone to come and enjoy the benefits of Pilates. While Classical Pilates may not be for everyone, I understand the appeal of HIT Pilates. My mission as a Pilates teacher is to provide fun, varied classes tailored to different preferences. I encourage all my clients to come to the studio for their first Pilates session to understand the origins and principles. Ideally, clients would do a studio class once a week, a mat class once a week, and a HIT class for cardio once a week. This complete approach provides a well-rounded fitness routine.

Package Offerings and Client Choice

To cater to diverse preferences, I offer an Intro Package, which includes a 1:1 classical studio session and a flexi pass for all class bookings. As a Pilates teacher, it is my responsibility to educate clients about Pilates and its history, while also allowing them to choose the approach that best suits them. The ultimate goal is to ensure that everyone who comes to Brighton Pilates enjoys movement as much as I do, with all classes being safe, fun, and friendly.