Classical Pilates: Lineage, Interpretation & Finding Your Studio (Ep. 4)
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We’re diving into the heart of classical Pilates in this episode—what it really means to practice and teach within the classical tradition. We kick things off by sharing some excitement about our growing podcast and a few fun tech upgrades, then take a deeper turn into the history and philosophy behind the work we love.
With Rose getting ready to move to Utah, we chat about the challenge of finding truly classical Pilates studios when relocating or traveling. What actually makes a studio classical? Is it the teacher’s lineage, the equipment they use, or something less tangible? We swap stories about the surprising differences we’ve noticed from studio to studio—from spring tensions that feel totally different, to small adjustments in equipment that better support different bodies. Even within the classical world, each space seems to have its own vibe, while still honoring the original method Joseph Pilates created.
We also reflect on conversations we’ve had with mentors over the years, asking ourselves: does being closer to Joseph Pilates in the lineage automatically mean someone’s teaching is more “authentic”? We touch on the sometimes elitist reputation classical Pilates can carry, and ask whether blending in contemporary elements is watering things down—or actually keeping the work alive and relevant.
At the core, this episode is about staying curious, staying open, and continuing to learn from a variety of voices. We’re passionate about helping bridge the gaps in the Pilates world, and this conversation is part of that mission.
So whether you’re a longtime teacher, a dedicated student, or just starting to explore Pilates, we hope this episode gives you something to think about. How do you find a studio that feels like home? What differences have you seen across classical spaces? We’d love to hear your thoughts—join us in the conversation.
Chapters
1. Tech Updates & Location Change (00:00:00)
2. Living History of Pilates Teaching (00:05:11)
3. Finding a Classical Pilates Studio (00:18:46)
4. Studio Differences & Equipment Variations (00:31:17)
5. Defining Classical Pilates (00:43:14)
6. Podcast Progress & Future Plans (00:56:15)
7. Wrap Up & Personal Updates (01:01:52)
6 episodes