The Pilates method of exercise was created by one man, Joseph Pilates. He taught a number of people, mostly dancers, who carried on teaching his method. They all had different experiences working with him and brought different perspectives to the method. But one teacher decided that their version was the “authentic” version, often known as “classical” Pilates.
I was trained in a more “contemporary” Pilates style. I learned the classical exercises as well as various “pre-Pilates” exercises created by one of Joseph Pilates original students to help people who were unable to do the traditional exercises. These focus on building the strength and movement skills required to be able to do those “classical” exercises. I learned many exercises that while not in the “classical” repertoire definitely carried the core principles of the method and were widely accessible for the people I was teaching. And those people were not professional dancers, but regular people.
You don’t need to be a professional dancer to do Pilates! But a lot of the original exercises are quite challenging, especially if you have a sedentary job, lack flexibility or suffer from pain or injuries. By being flexible and adaptable the work becomes more functional and effective for all people.
The mat work is maybe where these different approaches are most obvious. Many people have tried Pilates mat work and found that it hurts their neck, lower back or is just very frustrating due to inability to perform many exercises. I teach a “Modern” mat class which means I teach those “pre-Pilates” exercises and modify the more “classical” exercises so you are challenged but capable and comfortable. You can avoid neck strain and pain. You can find ways to support your back and build strength without flaring up injuries. There is no one way to do each exercise, I give you options for making each movement work best for you. You’re building strength, flexibility and most importantly body awareness which will be invaluable for improving your quality of life.
Isn’t improved quality of life the desired result of fitness and exercise? Much focus is put on “shape” and “tone” and looks but if you are having pain and lacking ease and freedom in movement those “ripped” muscles won’t make you feel good. Having a body that can move, that is capable of doing what you need and want it to do is the goal. A modern approach to the Pilates method allows for everyone to gain the benefits. Instead of trying to force a body to fit an ideal I will always adjust each exercise to make it appropriate for each body.
Expanding beyond a rigid structure creates a more inclusive system. I want to teach a version of Pilates that everyone can do.
Solara Pilates 