The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning
What is now widely known simply as “Pilates” is based on the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning, created by Joseph Pilates. Originally, Joseph Pilates called his work Contrology, which reflected his belief that physical movement should be performed with complete control, awareness, and intention.
Joseph Pilates believed that the mind and body worked together as one system. His method was built around the idea that through concentration, discipline, and practice, we can develop greater control over our movements and improve the way our bodies function.
To better understand the origins of classical Pilates and the philosophy behind the Method, it is helpful to first learn about the life and work of Joseph Pilates. Read my article, Who Was Joseph Pilates?, for a complete history of the creator of Contrology and the development of the Pilates Method.
The Pilates Method was designed as a systematic approach to physical conditioning that combines strength, flexibility, coordination, posture, and body awareness. Joseph Pilates created a comprehensive repertoire of mat exercises and specialized apparatus exercises, including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and other pieces still used in classical Pilates studios today.
A classical Pilates lesson begins by preparing the body through controlled movement, focusing on alignment, breathing, and coordination. The exercises emphasize the powerhouse—the center of the body including the abdominal muscles, lower back, hips, and gluteal muscles—before progressing outward to the extremities while maintaining stability and control.
Classical Pilates Defined
The simplest definition of classical Pilates is:
Classical Pilates is the practice of Pilates that adheres to the original method created by Joseph Pilates.
This includes preserving:
- The original exercise names
- The traditional exercise order and sequence
- The intended progression of exercises
- The principles behind the movements
- The purpose and application of each exercise
- The relationship between the mat exercises and apparatus repertoire
Classical Pilates is not simply a collection of exercises. It is a complete method designed as a progressive system. Each exercise prepares the body for future movements while building upon skills developed previously.
For example, exercises are not randomly selected based on what feels challenging that day. A classical instructor considers where a student is in their development and introduces movements at the appropriate time based on strength, flexibility, control, and understanding of the Method.
The goal is not just to perform an exercise—it is to understand it, refine it, and eventually “own” the movement.
Classical Pilates Lineage & Generations
One of the least discussed aspects of classical Pilates is the importance of lineage.
Classical Pilates is passed down through generations of teachers who studied directly with Joseph Pilates or with instructors who learned from him. This lineage helps preserve not only the exercises themselves, but also the teaching methodology, progressions, corrections, and philosophy behind the work.
A person cannot simply memorize the exercise order and consider themselves a classical Pilates instructor. Classical Pilates is not only about knowing the names of the exercises—it is about understanding how to teach the Method, how exercises relate to one another, and how to apply the work to different individuals.
For this reason, reputable classical Pilates teacher training programs require extensive education, observation hours, practice teaching, and apprenticeship. Many programs require hundreds of hours of training before an instructor is considered qualified to teach independently.
The Pilates Elders
Following Joseph Pilates’ death in 1967, several of his students continued teaching and became known as The Pilates Elders.
These instructors studied directly with Joseph Pilates and helped preserve and spread his work throughout the world. However, their approaches were not identical. Some studied with Joseph Pilates for shorter periods before developing their own interpretations, while others spent many years learning directly from him.
As a result, different classical Pilates lineages developed from the Elders. While they share a common foundation, there can be differences in teaching style, exercise execution, and interpretation.
Understanding lineage helps explain why classical Pilates instructors may have different approaches while still honoring the original Method.
My Personal Experience
My introduction to Pilates began after years as a fitness professional and athlete. After experiencing the benefits of Pilates firsthand, I became fascinated by the depth, precision, and systematic approach of the Method.
Over the years, I have taken many different Pilates classes and observed various teaching styles. Through this experience, I developed a strong appreciation for the classical approach and the importance of preserving the original system created by Joseph Pilates.
Based on my personal experience and study, I believe the Romana Kryzanowska lineage represents one of the closest continuations of Joseph Pilates’ original Method.
My personal preference is to study with second-generation instructors certified through Romana’s Pilates, particularly those who completed their apprenticeships in New York City during the years when Romana Kryzanowska and Bob Liekens were actively teaching at The Pilates Studio.
Learn More About Classical Pilates
If you would like to learn more about Joseph Pilates, the history of the Method, and the benefits of classical Pilates, please explore these related articles:
- Who Was Joseph Pilates?
- Benefits of Classical Pilates
- Classical vs. Contemporary Pilates