Authentic Pilates dates back to the birth of Pilates back in the 1920’s. Having claim to being the first & original forms of Pilates created by Joseph Pilates himself. While the original form of Pilates is widely respected by many there is still a lot that most don’t know about it.
Without further ado let’s take a look at 5 interesting “Did You Know” Facts about Classical / Authentic Pilates:
1) Classical / Authentic Pilates is a complete system that includes not just matwork, but also equipment-based exercises
Did you know that there are multiple pieces of equipment used in Authentic Pilates? This equipment or apparatus make it possible to practice a vast array of exercises not possible without it.
Here are a few:
- Reformer
- Arm / Baby chair
- Wunda chair
- Trapeze table / Cadillac
2) Pilates was originally created in the 1920’s with the intention of rehabilitating injured World War 1 Soldiers.
Joseph Pilates was born in Germany and moved to the United States in the early 1900’s. He started developing his Pilates system after working with a wide range of clients, including injured World War 1 soldiers.
After noticing how Pilates was able to help these soldiers rehabilitate quickly, word soon spread and Pilates started being used by dancers and athletes to improve their performance.
3) Classical / Authentic Pilates is often considered more difficult than other forms of Pilates.
While many people believe that Pilates is an easy form of exercise, this is not the case with classical Pilates. Classical / Authentic Pilates can be very challenging but in the best way. Originally created by a man for men, the classical approach uses stronger springs and more resistance. The equipment is also smaller and some exercises require complete body control and spinal articulation to correctly execute the exercise. In fact Joseph declared some exercises too difficult for most women to do on the reformer and he invented other equipment so that women could do the exercises without injury.
4) There are different ‘levels’ of Classical / Authentic Pilates
Much like many things in life, there are different levels when it comes to Classical / Authentic Pilates. These levels range from beginner to advanced, with each level becoming increasingly more difficult. The best part? Classical instructors use the reformer and mat to tell us where the body needs help, and then we use the various apparatus in the studio to tailor make the class for your body.
5) Classical Pilates follows a set order of exercises
Reformer and mat classes have a set repertoire for every level, and every class follows the same order. Instead of a random session of exercises, the classical /authentic Pilates class teaches an exercise order. You learn the order and because your brain is anticipating the next exercise, you are able to get more out of every exercise and measure your progression. The repetition of the order also aids the development of muscle plasticity.
At Authentic Pilates, we have developed The Pilates body transformation program to show you how to progress from basic to advanced. We follow the classical order and progress you step by step adding exercises as you grow stronger so you too can master classical Pilates.
