Feeling Confused About Pilates? You’re Not Alone.

If you’ve ever wondered what exactly Pilates is (and what it isn’t), you’re not the only one. With so many fitness trends and workout fusions out there, it can be hard to know whether you’re stepping into an actual Pilates class or simply something “inspired by” it.

When I first found Pilates, reformer-only studios with playlists, props, and a “feel-the-burn” vibe weren’t around. At the time, Pilates was trending in a very different way, and thankfully I stuck with it. Over time, through teacher training and deeper study, I discovered that Pilates wasn’t just another workout—it was the missing piece that changed how I moved in every part of my life.

Pilates is a Method, Not an Exercise

Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates, and it’s an entire system made up of exercises done on the mat, reformer, and many other apparatuses that Joseph designed. There are at least 15 other large and small apparatuses that are designed to help you build strength, mobility, and flexibility to complete the exercises. There are over 500 Pilates exercises, and once you have the foundations down, you will have an easier time adapting to the different apparatuses and advanced exercises. 

This is what makes Pilates unique! It’s a method of movement that brings body awareness, strength, flexibility, and mobility together. The more I learn, the more I realize there’s always another layer to discover. In fact, just last weekend I discovered several small devices Joseph designed that I’d never seen before. 

Where it Gets Confusing

A big part of the confusion stems from the fact that “Pilates” isn’t trademarked. In the 1990’s a man named Sean Gallagher tried (without success) to trademark the name, exercises, and even the apparatuses Joseph Pilates designed. Luckily, a federal court ruled that the term “Pilates” is generic and thus unable to be trademarked. This is excellent, because one person can’t “control” Pilates. On the other hand, while Joseph Pilates’ method is very specific, anyone can call their exercise class Pilates or Pilates-fusion, even when it isn’t. This makes things very confusing for someone new to Pilates. 

What True Pilates Offers

Pilates is a system and method of movement, and is “corrective” exercise. This means it corrects imbalances in the body using elements of strength, stretch, and mobility. With over 500 exercises, it’s anything but restrictive. Personally, I love it. I’m constantly challenged by Pilates and am still learning more, even twenty years after discovering it. 

I also love that Pilates can help and challenge anyone, regardless of their current ability. It’s known to be safe and effective following  rehab after an injury or surgery, getting back in shape after having a baby, and is often recommended for chronic back, shoulder, and neck pain. 

What to Look for in a Studio

If you’re looking for a fun, new workout and want to get on a reformer, then you might be completely happy with the trending reformer-only studios with larger group classes. But, if you want to get all the benefits of Pilates and learn more about this method of exercise, here are some things to look for in a studio:

• Fully, comprehensively trained Pilates teachers.
• They have multiple apparatuses.
• Introductory sessions so the instructor can get to know you and your needs.
• If you have limited mobility or special concerns, private sessions may be the best choice for you.

In the end, you want to look for knowledge and safety. Whether you choose a Classical or Contemporary studio doesn’t matter, but your instructor should be knowledgeable in both the method and how to keep you moving safely. I have some clients that move from their intro sessions right into regular classes, while others stick with private sessions for longer (or always).

Pilates is Here to Stay 

With Pilates’ recent rise in popularity, it’s been refreshing that people actually know what it is when I tell them what I do. I’m so happy more people are learning about and practicing Pilates. One hundred years ago, Joseph Pilates dreamed of everyone one day practicing his method, and it’s happening! While it might not always be trendy, Pilates is definitely here to stay.