Classical vs. Contemporary Pilates: What’s the Difference?

When someone tells me they take Pilates, one of the first things I wonder is: what kind?

Not because one version is automatically “real” and the other is not, or because I believe there is only one correct way to move. But as I have continued studying Pilates, I have realized that Classical and contemporary Pilates can offer very different experiences—even when they use similar equipment and exercises.

If you are new to Pilates, the distinction may not be obvious. You might walk into a studio, see Reformers and naturally assume that every Pilates class follows the same method.

But the Reformer is only one part of a much larger system.

What is Classical Pilates?

Classical Pilates aims to preserve the original method developed by Joseph Pilates, which he called Contrology.

The exercises are taught as part of an interconnected system rather than as isolated movements. The Reformer, Mat, Cadillac, Chairs, Barrels and other apparatus were designed to work together, with each piece helping the body understand something that can be carried into the rest of the method.

There is an established order, but that does not mean every client is expected to perform every exercise immediately. The sequence gives the work structure. An instructor can then choose what is appropriate for the person in front of them while continuing to build toward the complete system.

As a client develops greater strength, coordination and familiarity, the practice begins to flow. Transitions become part of the work. Exercises build upon one another. Over time, the client is not only learning individual movements—they are learning their own program.

This sense of progression is one of the things I love most about the Classical method.

What is contemporary Pilates?

Contemporary Pilates is a broad category, so it can look very different from one studio to another.

It often combines Pilates-based exercises with ideas from physical therapy, dance, fitness or other movement disciplines. The traditional order may be changed, and instructors may introduce new exercises, props or variations that were not part of Joseph Pilates’ original system.

Some contemporary studios are highly educational and individualized. Others are designed more like group fitness classes, with music, frequently changing choreography and an emphasis on creating a different workout each time.

Neither experience is inherently wrong. It depends on the studio, the instructor and what the client is looking for.

How can you tell which kind of studio you are in?

A studio may be more Classical if:

• Exercises are taught within a recognizable order or progression.

• The instructor uses the full apparatus system rather than relying only on the Reformer.

• Sessions build upon previous sessions.

• Transitions, rhythm, control and flow are treated as part of the method.

• Clients gradually learn and take ownership of their individual program.

• The studio refers to Pilates as a complete system or uses the name Contrology.

A studio may be more contemporary if:

• Classes change significantly from day to day.

• The programming blends Pilates with other movement or fitness approaches.

• Props and modern exercise variations are used frequently.

• The Reformer is treated as the primary—or only—piece of equipment.

• The experience is organized around instructor-led choreography rather than an established sequence.

There can also be overlap. Some instructors are trained in both approaches, and some studios incorporate Classical exercises within contemporary programming.

The equipment alone does not always tell you what kind of Pilates is being taught. Two studios can both have Reformers while offering completely different experiences.

Why I chose the Classical method

I began my Pilates education through comprehensive teacher training, but the more deeply I studied the Classical method, the more I understood that Pilates was never intended to be a collection of random exercises.

There is a reason one exercise follows another. There is a reason the apparatus supports the Mat work and the Mat work informs the apparatus. There is a reason the method becomes more independent as the client progresses.

I personally appreciate that structure.

I do not feel pressured to constantly invent something new simply to make a session feel interesting. The method already contains so much depth. The same exercise can continue teaching you something different as your body, understanding and experience evolve.

Classical Pilates also reflects what I believe movement should ultimately do: support the life happening outside the studio.

The goal is not simply to become impressive at Pilates. It is to develop strength, control, mobility and confidence that quietly appear in everyday moments—when you walk, travel, carry something, get onto the floor or move through your day with greater ease.

Does Classical mean rigid?

This is a common misconception.

Following a method does not mean ignoring the individual. Classical Pilates still requires the instructor to observe the person in front of them and decide what is appropriate that day.

Not every client begins in the same place. Bodies have different histories, experiences and needs. The order provides direction, but thoughtful teaching determines how the method is introduced and progressed.

To me, honoring the Classical system and teaching the individual are not opposing ideas. They belong together.

Which approach is right for you?

You may enjoy contemporary Pilates if you prefer variety, creative movement and a group-fitness atmosphere.

You may be drawn to Classical Pilates if you want to understand the original method, work with the complete apparatus system and develop a practice that progresses over time.

The most important thing is finding an instructor and environment that help you feel safe, supported and genuinely connected to what you are learning.

At LIRÉA, every new client begins with the Intro Private Series. Across four individual sessions, we begin introducing the Classical system, learning how your body moves and creating a thoughtful foundation for your continued practice.

Because Pilates is not only something you attend.

With time, attention and consistency, it becomes something you understand.