The method
Contemporary Pilates
The method Katie teaches: Joseph Pilates’ principles as the foundation, with today’s understanding of anatomy and movement shaping how the work is progressed, modified and sequenced.
What contemporary Pilates is
Contemporary Pilates keeps what makes Pilates Pilates: control, centering, concentration, precision, breath and flow, and the core repertoire on the mat and the apparatus. What changes is how that repertoire is used. Exercises are modified and progressed for the person in front of you, informed by current exercise science, and the equipment is used creatively rather than only in a fixed order.
Classical Pilates, by contrast, aims to preserve the method as Joseph Pilates taught it, often including the original order of exercises and equipment specifications. Both traditions come from the same work, and good contemporary teaching is built on a strong classical understanding.
Classical and contemporary, side by side
| Classical | Contemporary | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | The method as Joseph Pilates taught it | Joseph Pilates’ principles, applied with current anatomy and biomechanics |
| Exercise order | Usually a set system and order | Sequenced around the client, the class goal and the equipment |
| Modifications | Within the original repertoire | Progressions and regressions built for injury, pregnancy, sport and ability |
| Equipment | Often original specifications | Modern apparatus and accessories, such as the Allegro 2 reformer, Infinity Footbar and jumpboard |
In Katie’s workshops
How Katie teaches it
Katie’s background in professional ballet and her PHI Pilates comprehensive training give her teaching its precision. Her contemporary approach shows in how she programs: layered sequences, creative class formats and equipment like the Infinity Footbar and jumpboard used to challenge strength, flow and control.
Her instructor workshops are built around that thinking, so you leave with sequences and progressions you can teach the next day.
Contemporary Pilates questions
Is contemporary Pilates still real Pilates?
Yes. It uses the same principles and repertoire. The difference is in how exercises are adapted, progressed and sequenced for each client.
Is contemporary Pilates better than classical?
Neither is better in general. They answer different priorities: classical preserves the original method, contemporary adapts it. Many excellent teachers draw on both.
Can a classically trained instructor learn contemporary programming?
Yes, and a classical foundation helps. Katie’s workshops focus on sequencing, transitions and progressions that layer onto whatever training you already have.
Learn the approach
Workshops and masterclasses with Katie
Every session is recorded, so you can join live or catch it later.