Pilates has become popular in the last ten years and has evolved into various kinds even after being developed in the 1920s. If you are confused about what is different about each type of Pilates, consider this your guide. Here are the four most popular and common ones you need to know as a beginner!

Classical Pilates

Classical Pilates, formerly known as Contrology, follows the originality of the discipline created by Joseph Pilates. He designed the exercises and the sequence to move the body in all ranges of motion. He was truly a genius at that time. He created various equipments to create strong bodies free of pain and injuries. To name a few, Reformer, Cadillac, Ped-o-Pull, Wunda Chair, Magic Circle and Ladder Barrel.

The same exercises could be performed on various equipment to give the body feedback and resistance. The true Classical Pilates experience comes when you work the full system, which also includes the Mat work and equipment. The Method (Classical Pilates) relies on the main principles: 

1. Centering,
2. Concentration
3. Control
4. Precision
5. Flow
6. Breathing

Classical Pilates has a specific structure and routine. But it is dynamic and flowy due to the transitions between the exercises. These transitions also serve as exercises.

Contemporary Pilates

Contemporary Pilates is also called dynamic or hybrid Pilates. It takes the classic style of Pilates and modernizes the workout with a range of new exercises and movements. Contemporary Pilates may bring out music to the workout which creates a certain vibe to it that people like. Also, Contemporary Pilates utilizes various small equipments like dumbbells, soft Pilates balls, bands, or ankle weights.

So if you like a certain vibe while working out, then Contemporary Pilates is for you. The guiding system for this type of Pilates is your objectives, goals, body type, lifestyle, and physical condition. It is great, especially for women in their pre-natal pregnancy and post-natal pregnancy stages.

Mat Pilates

One of the best things about this type of Pilates is that it is the most accessible one. As the name says, you do it on a thick mat which is larger and provides more cushion than a yoga mat. You can do it from home or take virtual live Pilates sessions. 

As a beginner learning mat Pilates, you focus on learning and mastering the fundamental Pilates movement techniques. But it is also great for you if you are an advanced Pilates learner, as your instructor can modify the exercises to increase complexity and intensity.

Reformer Pilates

Every time you search for Pilates, the first image that pops up is that of bed-like contraptions. These bed-like contraptions are reformers. Like mat Pilates, you need a reformer bed to do reformer Pilates. 

This type of Pilates adds more resistance and provides more feedback to the body about using the muscles. Reformer Pilates feels different from mat Pilates. You can do Reformer under a trained instructor’s supervision only.

Let’s Wrap!

Every type of Pilates is a great choice. It helps establish a mind-body connection, time the body, lose weight, and improve mental health. No matter the kind of Pilates you choose for yourself, all focus on strengthening your core, bringing awareness to your body, and improving your 4s’s, strength, stretch, stamina, and stability.

At Pilates Lifetime, you can take a virtual mat class or private session in the studio. However, if you want to try Pilates, you can book your first free trial now!