Contemporary or classical? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help choose your Pilates training style.
Study contemporary or classical Pilates? Adopt a dog or move to London? Buy the smooth peanut butter or the crunchy peanut butter? We get it. Choices can feel overwhelming.
We’re here to tell you to relax. Don’t stress. Our team — and this guide — is here to help make the best decision for you. (Crunchy, definitely.)
Step 1: Know the difference.
Contemporary Pilates blends modern science with Pilates principles, incorporating insights from biomechanics and physical therapy. You’ll learn a wider variety of exercises and adaptations, which gives you the freedom to make creative modifications and tailor your sessions to different client needs.
It’s right for you if you want to harness your unique voice and personality in your teaching. It’s also worth considering if you want to lead group fitness classes where you need to adapt and modify exercises for diverse clients.
Classical Pilates stays true to Joseph Pilates’ original teachings with a set sequence of exercises performed with precision and control. It’s all about tradition and structure. In this training, you’ll learn the classic exercises in the exact order Joseph Pilates taught them. Expect rigorous training with a strong emphasis on form and technique.
This approach is ideal if you’re working with specialised groups, such as postpartum clients or clients recovering from injuries. The structured method helps create targeted, effective rehab and wellness programs. Additionally, classical Pilates involves a variety of specialised tools, including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and more.
What do they have in common? Both Contemporary and Classical Pilates enable you to teach 1:1 classes, support pre and postnatal clients, take on group classes, and equip you with everything you need to know about anatomy.
Step 2: Picture your dream future.
Let’s play a game. Picture yourself in 5 years time. What do your classes look like? How do you imagine your teaching style?
Do you see yourself as highly energetic and creative, where your personality shines? Are you teaching diverse group classes with varying fitness levels and needs? If so, the more dynamic Contemporary Pilates could be the right match for you.
Do you see yourself providing deeply personalised experiences? Working closely with individual clients, helping them achieve their specific goals over extended periods of time? If so, the more structured Classical Pilates could be a better fit.
Step 3: Consider your career opportunities.
If you’re planning to work in Australia, let’s break down the opportunities in the market.
Contemporary Pilates is increasing in popularity. Getting certified in this style gives you range to teach at a variety of facilities, from fitness clubs and physiotherapy clinics to sports centers, corporate wellness spaces, and boutique fitness studios.
Classical Pilates appeals to a more niche market, where you might find yourself working in specialised Pilates studios and wellness spaces. This style also opens doors to be able to teach private clients in clinics as well as at-home.
Step 4: Think about your clients.
Ultimately, it all comes back to your clients — who do you want to teach?
Do you want to teach diverse groups? Do you want to work with all fitness levels and conditions? Do you want clients who care about modern movement? Then Contemporary Pilates could be for you.
Or do you want clients who care about tradition? Clients who are committed to a more structured workout and long-term relationship? Then Classical Pilates could be your ticket.
Step 5: Assess yourself.
Let’s go inward, and suss out what kind of instructor — and person — you are.
Do you enjoy creativity and flexibility in your teaching? Do you love learning about the latest fitness trends? Are you keen to incorporate innovative scientific research into your practice? Do you love to bring your personality to the mat and use it to engage your clients? We think you’d like Contemporary Pilates.
Or perhaps you value tradition? Do you like to be consistent with your practice, and prefer not to rock the boat? Are you an admirer of the original Pilates method and lean towards providing more detailed, precise instruction? Then we think Classical Pilates could be the right choice for you.
Step 6: Factor in training hours and structure.
Training hours and structure can seriously vary between classical and contemporary programs.
Classical Pilates typically requires a commitment to hands-on training and apprenticeships. This in-person approach ensures you master each exercise through rigorous practice and mentorship.
Contemporary programs on the other hand are a little more flexible. They can offer a mix of in-person and online training, which makes it more accessible if you have a tight schedule.
Step 7: Understand assessment styles.
The certification process can also differ between classical and contemporary Pilates, so it’s essential to know which style of assessment brings out the best in you.
Classical programs often have comprehensive final assessments that require mastery of all exercises before certification. This more rigorous approach ensures that instructors are highly knowledgeable and is better suited if you have a sensibility for high-pressure environments.
Contemporary programs can offer modular certifications that build up to a final certification, allowing for more incremental progress. This flexibility could be suited to you if you prefer a broken-down, step-by-step approach to learning.
Step 8: Do the math.
If you’re learning on a budget, Contemporary Pilates programs typically offer more affordable options as well as flexible payment plans, which makes them accessible to a broader range of aspiring instructors.
Classical Pilates programs can be more expensive due to the extensive training and mentorship required. You receive a high level of instruction and hands-on experience, and start to see long-term gains once you start teaching, but it can be a significant investment for some.
Stuck? Ask your own teachers!
Don’t be shy. Your teachers will be glad you asked! (Source: we’re teachers.)
DM the trainers you admire or stick around after class. Ask them about their favorite classes, where they trained, and what approach they prefer. Because if you love their teaching, chances are you’ll love their training, too.
Step 9: Take the plunge.
The choice is an incredibly personal one — based on your personality, aspirations, lifestyle — and it’s one we could never make for you. But take comfort in the fact that whatever choice you make, is the right choice.
Both Classical Pilates and Contemporary Pilates offer unique benefits, valuable opportunities, and lead to fulfilling careers as an instructor.
Take your time, do your research, ask the questions, and choose the program that feels right for you.
Decision made? Let’s do this.
Get you started on your Pilates teacher training journey. Explore our courses and programs to find the perfect fit for you. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
