***Classical Pilates is a system of teaching in the tradition of the students who became Master Teachers that inherited Joe and Clara's studio in New York City. Also referred to as the New York or East Coast method. Classical Pilates is done on equipment produced to the specifications of the equipment Joe designed. And most lessons and classes follow the order of exercises he created on the Mat and the Reformer. Additional equipment in a classical Pilates studio will be more of the apparatus Joe created - the Wunda Chair, the Baby Arm Chair, the Cadillac, the Ladder Barrel, the Small Barrel, the High Chair, and the Ped-i-Pole. Within the classical systems variation exists between exercise names, exercise sequences, and subtle differences in choreography, but the relationship to the original body of work is closely aligned.
***In contrast contemporary Pilates, based on the classical movements, has been changed in some way. Changes are often reflected in the exercises, make and style of equipment, sequencing of exercises, verbal cues, movement concepts, and inclusion of non-classical exercises. Contemporary Pilates embraces advancements in exercise science, interpretation of the classical exercises, and accepts new exercises into the system. Some contemporary Pilates even fuses with other systems, techniques, methods, etc. While often great workouts and fun classes, there is a clear difference between classical and contemporary Pilates as training systems. A good student of the method will know the classical work and what within contemporary Pilates has value for their body.
