Classical Pilates: An Efficient & Effective Workout using THE SYSTEM

Before THE SYSTEM there was just The Mat. Originally 34 exercises in a sequence to work the body in all planes of movement. Rolling and moving the spine in all directions lays the foundation of the work. Joseph Pilates called it Contrology. By following the exercise order, detailed execution and number of reps to perform, along with his philosophy for living (more than the exercises), the workout promised to provide students with benefits that would enhance wellbeing immensely. But there was a problem: it was so challenging that even elite athletes struggled to complete Joe’s full routine! Trust us: This is still the case and as such, “Pilates” in the wild has become a little more Pilates “Inspired” a little more “Pilates-ish”, rather than what JP intended. The mat is very challenging to do well and there’s nowhere to hide. So in an effort to build the skills required, Joe created so much more.

Enter: “The Pilates System” with all the impressive and often intimidating spring loaded equipment and spine supporting Barrels, compression tools like the Foot Corrector, Magic Circle plus more, was born. In the classical method: working on The Reformer means students also follow an order of exercises (level specific) which builds endurance through fluid transitions which are required to move efficiently, building strength, endurance, executing with precision and control.

The result of following the system is, well…. RESULTS. You want to be strong? CHECK. Age gracefully or even backwards? You bet. Your posture is terrible and you’re feeling depressed from sitting all day at a desk and all night in front of the TV? This is more of a general observation of society as a whole, sadly; So yes, we see you and we want to help - desperately. Need to prevent or recover from injury? Please come!

If a 1-1 Private lesson is not within reach on a regular basis, we offer 2 or 3 person Semi Privates or a max 3 person drop in class called “THE SYSTEM” See the calendar below. Homework is to practice the knowledge learned in studio by working Joe’s mat exercises in the proper sequence/order to feel all sides of the body evenly strengthened and stretched. Remain consistent with 3-4 times per week and the results will come.

Did you know: We have a free beginner 10 minute mat workout on our blog page for you to practice for your homework?

“The mind, when housed within a healthful body possesses a glorious sense of power” J.H. Pilates

Contact us for more information at hello@sparkpilates.com