What is Authentic Pilates?
Why Authentic Pilates?
Today, Pilates is everywhere — from gyms to YouTube — often promoted as a way to simply “tone your core.” But Authentic Pilates is so much more than that.
While many modern forms borrow from Pilates exercises, the original method created by Joseph Pilates represents a complete philosophy of movement. Known as Contrology, this system was developed nearly 100 years ago to recondition both body and mind to work at peak efficiency. At Trinity Pilates, we honour and practice this authentic, classical approach.
Authentic Pilates begins from a strong centre, using a dynamic two‑way stretch. It incorporates flexion, extension, oppositional forces, and precise alignment, guided by six principles: Centering, Control, Concentration, Precision, Breath, and Flow. This practice improves structural alignment, reinforces healthy postural habits, enhances circulation, builds muscle power, and develops endurance.
In each session, you will work from your toes to the crown of your head, cultivating a long, flexible spine, a strong and stable core, and agile limbs. You’ll learn to activate your “powerhouse” — the abdominal muscles, glutes, and inner thighs — and move with control in every direction. The benefits extend far beyond the studio, enhancing your daily activities, supporting other physical pursuits, reducing injury risk, and creating lifelong mobility.
What Makes Pilates “Authentic”
In the Pilates world, certain elements define whether a class can truly be called authentic or classical:
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Certified Instruction — Classes must be taught by an instructor trained and certified in the authentic method, with a direct lineage tracing back to Joseph Pilates.
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Original Methodology — The exercises must follow the sequence and system Joseph Pilates created, preserving the integrity of his work.
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Authentic Apparatus — Practice must be done on equipment designed by Joseph Pilates himself.
At Trinity Pilates, I meet all of these standards. My teachers were trained by Romana Kryzanowska, Joseph Pilates’ master student, giving me a direct lineage back to the founder. My studio is equipped exclusively with apparatus from Pilates Designs. In every class, I strive to uphold the principles of classical Pilates, ensuring that you experience the method exactly as Joseph Pilates intended.
