Pilates Archives | OriGym Centre of Excellence

21 Essential Pilates Equipment

Abbie Watkins — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 23:00:00 +0000

There are several pieces of Pilates equipment is are essential must-haves for anyone with a passion for their craft. So whether you’re a qualified professional or just a general enthusiast looking to hone your craft, this list will tell you everything you need!

Have you ever considered taking your passion for health and fitness and turning it into a career? With qualifications like OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teaching course, you can learn first-hand from industry professionals who will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills required to kickstart a successful career!

Want to know more about this qualification or any of the other courses offered at OriGym? Download your FREE OriGym prospectus now.

What Are The Different Types of Pilates?

As it continuously grows in popularity, Pilates has evolved hugely from the initial teachings devised by Joseph Pilates. Throughout the years, various new forms of Pilates have stemmed, most of which require specific pieces of equipment for the classes.

If you’d like to learn more about this practice and its different variations, be sure to check out our in-depth exploration of the history of Pilates here.

Classical Pilates

Simply put, classical Pilates is the original Pilates method developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. This style is typically taught in a studio space and incorporates a combination of mat-based work and apparatus (reformer).

Classical Pilates consists of sequence-based work which is designed to move the body through a full range of movement. There is a huge range of websites where you can buy Pilates equipment online, making the practice increasingly accessible.

Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is a versatile and accessible form of practice, suitable for both beginners and advanced students. This variation was explored by Joseph Pilates before any other apparatus was introduced and is considered a low-maintenance option that focuses on using mere body weight to work on core strength and toning your arms and legs.

Contemporary Pilates

Contemporary Pilates is any form or variation that has been developed after the original classical form. This style has been described by Pilates professionals as incorporating modern knowledge of the body and biomechanics into the standard repertoire.

Thus, the original Pilates exercises still exist, but new modifications have been added to make the system safer or more functional. This form also incorporates a wide range of apparatus and is considered to be the reason why equipment is so accessible today.

Reformer Pilates

As the name suggests, this variation uses the Pilates reformer as it’s primary piece of equipment. The reformer is a bed-like platform which has a sliding carriage, ropes, and pulling mechanisms.

This machine is designed to add resistance to the exercises and is therefore seen as a more challenging or physically demanding form of Pilates. However, the springs that create the resistance can be altered to create different tension levels.

For this reason, the reformer is considered a great piece of Pilates health equipment, that has found success in helping athletes and general fitness enthusiasts with injury rehabilitation.

Within one of his writings on Contrology, ‘Return to Life Through Contrology’, Joseph Pilates states that ‘Contrology is not a fatiguing system of dull, boring, abhorred exercises repeated daily… neither does it demand your joining a gymnasium nor the purchasing of expensive apparatus’. He ends by stating that ‘You may derive all the benefits of Contrology in your own home’.

This statement links perfectly with the aims of our essential Pilates guide. Equipment can help to enrich the practice of pilates, and if you typically just practised the traditional mat-based variation, now is the time to change!

Essential Pilates Equipment UK guide

#1 – Exercise Mats

Whether you are looking for a trendy new yoga and pilates mat for home workouts or you are looking to cater for a class of clients, a good exercise mat is most definitely an essential piece of Pilates training equipment.

As explored earlier, a mat can be used for practically all kinds of Pilates. A mat-based workout can offer up to 34 different exercises alone, making it one of the most cost-effective types of pilates equipment.

So, having a good quality mat that is durable, provides comfort and support, and has a good level of grip, is essential. Not only that, but an exercise mat is possibly the most transportable piece of Pilates equipment, you can tuck it under your arm to carry to your next class or take it along to your next get away – just imagine… a session of Pilates in the sunshine.

Here are our recommendations:

#2 – Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are a great piece of Pilates equipment, they allow you to add resistance to your workout without the need for expensive or bulky kit, such as Pilates reformer home equipment.

Coming in a range of materials, difficulties, and sizes, resistance bands aren’t just a piece of cheap Pilates equipment, they’re a universal item and a worthy addition to your kit.

Most of all, resistance bands are again portable, and they can be used to train multiple areas of the body. They are particularly great to use if you are a freelance teacher running classes in a studio one minute and in a park the next as they can be used anywhere, by anyone, in many ways.

Check out these recommended products to see the benefits for yourself:

#3 – Pilates Ring

Another great piece of Pilates small equipment, is a pilates ring. Also known as a ‘magic circle’, this is one of the most iconic pieces of Pilates and yoga equipment.

Created and used by Pilates founder, Joseph Pilates, the ring consists of a circular rubber shape with two double sided handles. The Pilates ring is another great piece of Pilates equipment which allows you to add resistance during a workout but can also aid joint mobility, flexibility, and help to develop muscle strength.

Furthermore, as with a lot of pilates apparatus and equipment, the Pilates ring is lightweight, portable, and affordable. A suitable piece of kit to have for home workouts or to use in a studio, the ‘magic ring’ is a must have piece of Pilates training equipment.

Here are two of our favourites:

#4 – Swiss Ball

Swiss ball, exercise ball, stability ball, call it what you like, we couldn’t write a list of essential Pilates gym equipment without including this universal piece of kit.

An accessible and affordable piece of equipment, a swiss ball can be found in any gym or studio, and can be purchased online at a very reasonable price.

As well as providing an alternative to a bench or platform-like surface to lean, lay and balance on, a swiss ball is used for a variety of Pilates movements that target the entire body.

Requiring added balance and focus, the swissball targets smaller muscle groups, activating core strength. Incorporating a swiss ball into your Pilates routine is an easy way to increase the difficulty of specific moves.

If you’re looking to buy Pilates equipment online, check out the following recommendations:

#5 – Foam Roller

A Pilates teachers favourite, a foam roller is a great device for both physical therapy and exercise assistance. Like a lot of small Pilates equipment, a foam roller is compact, affordable, and can be used throughout the entirety of a session from the warmup through to the cooldown.

It is important to note that foam rollers do come in an array of densities, materials, and sizes, so you may find yourself overwhelmed with where to start. Here’s an overview of just a few types of foam rollers:

Low-density: Perfect to add to your Pilates studio equipment, the lightest and softest foam rollers are often used for classes or to ease sore muscles after an intense workout.

Firm rollers: As the name suggests, this type of foam roller has a tough exterior and is used for intense deep tissue massaging, a typical piece of Pilates health equipment. If you feel uneasy about the sensation of foam rolling then a lighter density may be better suited to you.

Short foam rollers: These rollers are ideal if you have an area of the body you are wanting to focus on. They come in low densities or high densities, and are perfect to pack in a bag when travelling.

Textured rollers: These may look intimidating but textured rollers whether bumpy or grid-like, allow you to target specific knots in your back or in other areas of the body. The different kinds of ridges result in varying levels of tension.

Foam rollers are arguably the best pilates equipment for home use, so why not have a look at these brilliant options:

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If you’re enjoying this list and want to enrich your Pilates practice even further, why not pursue a teaching career? Check out Origym’s guide on becoming a Pilates instructor for further information on how to find success in this role!

#6 – Foam Block

There are a number of similarities between Pilates and yoga equipment, one example being foam blocks (also known as yoga blocks).

For Pilates, a foam block is used to assist positions and movement participating in improving technique by aligning the body. The foam block is particularly great at supporting the head, back and hips when exploring floor work.

Ultimately, a foam block encourages a supported environment during mat Pilates that a machine may offer in other types of Pilates, like Pilates reformer equipment. Foam blocks are handy for both commercial Pilates equipment and to have as part of your setup at home.

What’s more, foam blocks are a versatile and cheap piece of Pilates equipment. Check out the options below or head over to our ‘best yoga blocks’ article for a wider variety of recommendations.

#7 – Therapy Bands

Slightly different to the resistance bands mentioned above, these non-latex bands provide an adaptable tool for whole body resistance exercises and are a brilliant alternative to expensive Pilates stretching equipment.

Ideal for rehabilitation, therapy bands are often longer and thinner than other resistance bands and are ‘free’ at the ends rather than being in a loop. This allows a wider range of movements and a higher amount of repetitions, aiding muscle toning and fat burning.

Aiding stretching and warmups, therapy bands provide a lightweight resistance, ideal for rebuilding muscle after an injury and for maintaining minimal movements during recovery.

Cut them, swap them, layer them, or increase intensity, this is a truly versatile piece of kit. Whether you are a Pilates enthusiast or a rehabilitation coach – therapy bands have got to be an essential piece of Pilates exercise equipment.

#8 – Overball

Overballs are another popular piece of Pilates equipment, with similar features to those of the Pilates circle and a foam roller.

Pilates overballs come in various sizes and can be placed between your legs, knees, ankles, hands or behind your back. You can use them for leaning or stability exercises, like foam blocks or rollers, or they can be squeezed, creating tension and resistance, like a Pilates circle.

An overball is a useful Pilates workout equipment for home as they provide support and create resistance. Overballs have lots to offer at an affordable price but be sure to check they are of a decent quality to ensure they are burst and slip proof as this will help you to avoid any unwanted injuries.

You can find our recommendations below:

#9 – Pole or Bar

A pole or bar is an often overlooked piece of Pilates equipment which is not only a great addition to your resistance and Pilates stretching equipment, but it is also a valuable tool for anybody looking for Pilates reformer home equipment.

You can use the bar alone to support your posture and technical frame, or it can be used to replicate reformer mechanics by adding resistance bands, creating a spring-like apparatus. Considering all they offer, this is a great value piece of equipment for Pilates.

#10 – Soft Weights (ball)

As with any form of exercise, adding weight is an easy way to increase difficulty and to tone muscles. As well as this, adding soft weights to your Pilates workout allows you to engage smaller muscles that normally become abandoned.

Adding weight forces you to realign your body through balance, so next time you have a wobble or shake, remember this is a good sign – you are working hard!

In addition, the design of soft weights help to reduce the risk of injury, making it one of the best Pilates equipment for home use, and a user-friendly option for clients and Pilates lovers of all backgrounds and abilities.

#11 – Massage Balls

You may have noticed by now that a lot of Pilates exercise equipment features objects that can assist physical therapy or massage based exercises. Adding to this list are ‘Massage Balls’.

These tiny balls may look a little obscure at first but if you have worked with them before, you will be aware of the numerous benefits they can offer. As seen in Reformer Pilates, many people choose to explore Pilates as a method of rehabilitation or fitness progression. This creates an area of Pilates equipment that comes under the ‘Pilates health equipment’ umbrella.

Massage balls are normally small but can come in a number of forms, including regular massage balls and spiky massage balls. These massage balls assist exercises that aim to achieve a myofascial release, a type of physical therapy that is used to treat chronic pain within body tissues.

Massage balls can be used to ease pain and tension around ‘trigger points’ where pain is concentrated. They can be incorporated into your Pilates training equipment if you are looking for handy rehabilitation methods.

Unless professionally trained, it is advised to consult a medical professional before using this equipment. Or, check out the OriGym Guide to self myofascial release.

#12 – Ankle and Wrist Weights

In Pilates, progression is all about adding weight and resistance so you can challenge yourself and improve your fitness levels over time. For that reason, ankle strap weights and hand weights are a great addition to your Pilates at home equipment or Pilates studio equipment.

Ankle and wrist weights are an easy way to intensify your workout in a hassle free way. With straps to fit around your ankles or wrists, these practical weights are perfect for adding weight and increasing resistance.

Hand weights may look basic but they are also an effective and classic piece of equipment for all forms of Pilates. No one wants to be battling with clumsy, bulky weights whilst getting into the Pilates zone, therefore, small hand weights are a major must-have for anybody looking for Pilates home gym equipment.

#13 – Floor Gliders

They may look like something you would use for figure skating, but these nifty gliders will get you feeling the burn. Floor gliders (also known as ‘gliding discs’ or ‘sliders’) are small circular pads that can be used to glide along the floor during a workout.

This may sound silly, but these discs can contribute to your workout in a number of ways, such as:

Adding aerobic elements to simple movements such as mountain climbers.
Making simple bodyweight movements, such as side cross lunges, more challenging by adding resistance.
Increasing challenge to your core (which is great for toning and improving stability).

These versatile and lightweight gliders are a perfect addition to your ‘on the go’ Pilates bag. Be sure, however, to pick the most suitable gliders for your flooring as some options are only suitable for either wooden floor or carpet.

Check out the recommendations below or head over to our recent blog post listing the 13 best exercise sliders to buy online.

#14 – Balance/Stability Board

Similar to floor gliders, stability or balance boards are another great addition to your Pilates kit.

Balance boards add an extra challenge to your workout, but rather than sliding, these nifty boards require balance and strength to help support and progress pilates movements.

Coming in different shapes and forms, there is a balance board for everyone – from trendy BOSU balance trainers, perfect for home workouts, to small balance discs, ideal for larger classes or freelance trainers.

Also suitable for rehabilitation-based Pilates, balance and stability boards can be used by people of all ages and are a perfect piece of equipment to improve core strength, posture and coordination – all of which are vital elements of Pilates training.

#15 – Ab Rollers

Now it’s time to get those abs of steel!

Joseph Pilates named the core the “powerhouse” of the body. As Pilates focuses on key foundations like control, centering, and concentration, core stability and strengthening make up a significant aspect of Pilates training.

The best piece of Pilates equipment to engage your core is an ab roller or wheel. Using an ab roller is an excellent way to mimic the sliding motions of Pilates reformer equipment during core based exercises, by simply rolling the wheel along the floor, you can create a sliding carriage effect to assist your mat workout.

Ab rollers are also a great tool for mat based Pilates as they don’t only target your core, in fact, you can base a whole session around them as many come with foot straps to get your glutes involved too.

#16 – Reformer Machine

The reformer machine is the defining piece of Pilates studio equipment for the growingly popular reformer pilates. Although this piece of kit may look intimidating, it is becoming increasingly trendy with celebrities like Margot Robbie and Meghan Markle giving it the thumbs up.

Although considerably expensive, this machine provides all you need for an extensive reformer pilates session. Essentially, the reformer machine provides a platform for a pilates session which is specialised, high-powered, and fully purposed.

However, reformer machines are typically large and bulky, so they may not be the best Pilates equipment for your home. That said, as the popularity of this type of Pilates rises, there are more and more compact and foldable reformers being designed with storage in mind.

Reformer machines are particularly great for teachers wanting to lead specialised pilates classes, ultimately, they provide endless exercise variations and their abilities are ever evolving.

Here are some great options:

#17 – Combo Chair

A combo chair is another great piece of Pilates exercise equipment. If you want to perform Pilates at home or in a smaller studio, a combo chair offers a brilliant alternative to the reformer machine.

The pilates chair allows you to add extra resistance to your workout by including features similar to a reformer, including springs, pedals, and handles for balancing.

The pilates chair comes in many forms from the traditional ‘Wunda chair’ designed by Joseph Pilates himself, to modern gym style chairs and arm-chairs, such as the ‘baby chair’.

You can even pay more for a Pilates chair that can look part of your home furniture – now that’s fancy. The Pilates chair is ideal for rehabilitation, but Pilates chair workouts can also be some of the most challenging and they’re particularly effective at building arm and leg muscles.

#18 – Sitting Box

Sitting boxes are a multi-use piece of Pilates equipment that can be added onto a Pilates reformer equipment machine. Pilates boxes allow for a more comfortable workout by allowing you to sit, lean and balance on a padded and structured surface.

They are typically designed to be used with a reformer machine, however, they can also be used for floor based workouts by adding levels and a platform, creating opportunities to explore a wider range of exercises. If you are a reformer Pilates enthusiast, you will know that the sitting box is a brilliant addition to your workout.

#19 – Arc/Spine Corrector

The Pilates arc or spine corrector is a useful Pilates tool that hones in on a number of Pilates fundamentals. Used by Joseph Pilates himself, a spine corrector can be used for exercises that aim to assist posture and stretching exercises of the back, torso, legs and shoulders.

A spine corrector or arc can be a great addition to your Pilates equipment if you enjoy mat Pilates. Whether you are at home or in a studio, a spine corrector will ‘challenge balance, strength, proprioception and control’.

The design of the spine corrector and its curve provides support for complex movements and the flat part provokes instability and adds an extra challenge. The arc or spine corrector is a diverse and durable piece of Pilates equipment, you can even flip it over and use it as a balance board like apparatus.

Here are some great places to buy pilates equipment online:

#20 – Ladder Barrel

There’s nothing better than a good stretch right? The Pilates ladder barrel is a purpose built apparatus that allows you to focus on exercises that support spine flexion and extension.

This idea of nurturing the spine and maintaining a healthy posture is a key element of Pilates, reflected through the principle ‘centering’. Funnily enough, this unusual looking piece of equipment was actually developed in a rather haphazard way.

The founder of the practice, Joseph Pilates, was a beer drinker and one day he began experimenting with how barrels can be used to assist spine supporting movement – and there we have it, the ladder barrel was born.

This classic piece of equipment may not receive as much attention compared to the mighty reformer and trapeze, however, it’s still an iconic piece of Pilates equipment!

The ladder barrel, unlike the combo chair and reformer, does not have springs and can therefore offer a different variety of Pilates movements. Although some people argue that the ladder barrel has limitations compared to the reformer or trapeze, it still has a plethora of specific exercises that target spine support, as well as side bending exercises that develop core strength and really work the obliques.

#21 – Cadillac/Trapeze

Probably the king of all Pilates equipment, the Trapeze table or Cadillac, was the first piece of Pilates equipment developed by Joseph Pilates. During World War One, Joseph Pilates was placed in a forced internment camp where he created the first trapeze table out of hospital beds.

This fascinating backstory is reflected through the love for today’s trapeze practice, growing in popularity amongst A-listers like Victoria Beckham and the Kardashians.

Suitable for Pilates beginners, those recovering from an injury, but also for people wanting to try more difficult movements, the trapeze is one of the most versatile pieces of Pilates equipment – but this does come at a costly price!

The trapeze is designed like a four-poster bed with features such as springs, swings, and a metal frame, all of which work together to provide resistance, hanging, and mobility support.

Basically, a trapeze or Cadillac can do pretty much everything, so if you have the studio space then this piece of Pilates equipment can be a great investment for both your business and your body.

Here are some suggested Pilates Cadillacs/Trapeze tables, including some simplified options:

Before You Go!

So there you have it, we have officially completed our 21 essential Pilates equipment guide. Whether you came here in search of equipment for your home, for a studio, or for Pilates health equipment to help you recover from an injury, we hope that you have found what you were looking for.

If you’ve been searching for something to deepen your passion and appreciation for health and fitness, then why not enter the industry in a professional capacity? Enquire about OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teacher Training today, and you could be helping to enrich the lives of enthusiasts just like you!

For more information on the range of health and fitness qualifications that you can study with here at OriGym, go ahead and download a free course prospectus here.

References:

Pilates, J. William, W. 1945. Return to Life Through Contrology.

Muscolino, J. Cipriani, S. 2004. Pilates and the “powerhouse”. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. Volume 8, Issue 1, January 2004, Pages 15-24.

POOSH. KOURT’S PILATES ROUTINE for Rock-Hard Abs. 2021. [Online]. [Date accessed: 24/03/2021]. Available from: https://poosh.com/kourtney-kardashian-pilates-routine/

Forbes. 2019. The Best Home Pilates Equipment for 2019. Bianca Solanga. [Online]. [Date accessed: 24/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/biancasalonga/2019/08/20/the-best-home-pilates-equipment-for-2019/?sh=448c35f82cf6

Awake and Mindful. 2021. Essential Pilates Gear for Home Workouts. [Online]. [Date accessed: 24/03/2021]. Available from: https://awakeandmindful.com/essential-pilates-gear-for-home-workouts/

Pilates Bridge. 2014. Classical vs contemporary. [Online]. [Date accessed: 25/03/2021]. Available from: https://pilatesbridge.com/classical-vs-contemporary-pilates/

Pilates Anytime. 2020. TOP 10 PILATES PROPS FOR MAT CLASSES.[Online]. [Date accessed: 25/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.pilatesanytime.com/Pilates-Blog/1164/Top-10-Pilates-Props-for-Mat-Classes

NHS. 2018. A guide to Pilates. [Online]. [Date accessed: 25/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/guide-to-pilates/

Science Direct. 2008. Pilates. [Online]. [Date accessed: 28/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/pilates

Healthline. 2016. What is myofascial release and does it work? [Online]. [Date accessed: 28/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/chronic-pain/myofascial-release#consult-your-doctor

Harpersbazaar. 2019. Reformer Pilates explained: how it can work for you.[Online]. [Date accessed: 28/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/beauty/fitness-wellbeing/a29498314/reformer-pilates/

Muscolino, J. E., & Cipriani, S. (2004). Pilates and the “powerhouse”—ii. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 8(2), 122-130. doi:10.1016/s1360-8592(03)00058-5

Complete Pilates. 2021. An introduction to the trapeze table – what is it and how does it work?.[Online]. [Date accessed: 30/03/2021]. Available from: https://complete-pilates.co.uk/trapeze-table/

The Pilates Hut. 2021. History of Pilates. [Online]. [Date accessed: 30/03/2021]. Available from: https://www.thepilateshut.co.uk/about-pilates/history-of-pilates/

Mira Fit. 2019. What Pilates equipment do I need? 2021. [Online]. [Date accessed: 26/03/2021]. Available from: https://mirafit.co.uk/blog/What-Pilates-Equipment-Do-I-Need/

Complete Pilates. 2021.Types of Pilates: What Pilates class is right for you? [Online]. [Date accessed: 30/03/2021]. Available from: https://complete-pilates.co.uk/types-of-pilates/

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13 Best Pilates Books To Read This Year

Chloe Twist — Thu, 17 Sep 2020 23:00:00 +0000

Finding the best Pilates books to read in 2023 can be a challenge, especially since there are so many different options available online. That’s why OriGym has put together a well-rounded list of books we think you’ll love!

These options will range in topics, from enriching your own practice to kickstarting a career. If the latter interests you, then you should also check out OriGym’s definitive guide on how to become a Pilates instructor.

Enriching your love for health and fitness can also be achieved through studying qualifications like OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teaching course. To learn more about this course, be sure to download our FREE course prospectus!

#1 – Pilates For Dummies Book

The Pilates For Dummies book is an informative and comprehensive manual with basic, intermediate, and advanced step-by-step exercises targeting the stomach, thighs, and chest from Pilates trainer Ellie Herman. With clear photos, diagrams, and illustrations, Pilates For Dummies aims to make Pilates exercises, combinations of yoga, gymnastics, boxing, and dance, accessible to anyone allowing you to perfect them at home or as a supplement to classes.

Teaching Pilates since 1991, author Ellie leads a teacher training program in Brooklyn and has published ten books on Pilates exercises. A former dancer and choreographer, she discovered Pilates at the Dance Medicine Department at St Francis Hospital in San Francisco after suffering a knee injury. With the use of Pilates during her rehabilitation she experienced a full recovery, felt stronger and more energised and has dedicated her professional career to Pilates since. If you want to learn more about how this exercise method came about, be sure to check out OriGym’s guide to Pilates history!

Ellie writes clearly explaining topics such as the origins of Pilates, eight basic Pilates principles to get the most out of your time spent on the mat, how to set realistic goals, exercises to target abs, glutes, lower back, thighs, and arms, the use of Pilates equipment, how to custom-tailor your Pilates program to look better than ever, injury recovery and posture reform, and ten ways to incorporate Pilates into your daily life, amongst many more.

Ellie encourages her readers to reference books on Pilates beyond Pilates For Dummies and overall the 365-page reference book is one of the best Pilates books for beginners, intermediate practitioners looking for a clear instruction guide, and teachers looking for a complete reference guide for themselves and their clients.

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: For Dummies (2002)

Price: £9.99 (Waterstones), £12.79 (WHSmith), £11.38 (Amazon)

#2 – Pilates for Beginners: Core Pilates Exercises and Easy Sequences to Practice at Home

This is one of the best books on Pilates for beginners, hence the title! Author Katherine Corp, Ex stunt artist and owner of New York-based ‘Pilates On Fifth’ where she instructs with her identical twin sister Kimberly, takes her student back to basics with a step-by-step to guide to a perfectly executed and tailored home-based Pilates workout program.

Designed as a complete starter program this Pilates exercise book makes incorporating Pilates into your routine easy with chapters progressing with increasingly more difficult workouts. Katherine has designed a program which develops with you as your body strengthens and your confidence increases with clear instructions, photographs, and checklists. So, if you’re looking for Pilates instruction books, this is one of the best ones available.

Pilates for Beginners includes ‘Pilates 101’ for mastering fundamental principles such as control, breathing, Pilates-Centering and ‘Flow-to’, 50 easy-to-follow exercises including warm-ups and cool-downs plus strengthening exercises, and ‘Progressive Sequences’ to build core strength, spinal mobility, and flexibility.

One hundred and seventy-four pages, Pilates for Beginners is packed with valuable information to help beginners understand how to safely and accurately execute Pilates exercises as opposed to only mirroring an instructor.

Available at: Amazon

Published: Althea Press (2018)

Price: £12.46 (Amazon)

#3 – Pilates for Pregnancy: A safe and effective guide for pregnancy and motherhood

Pilates for Pregnancy by Anya Hayes, a Pilates teacher specialising in pregnancy, motherhood, and self-compassion, is a Pilates pregnancy book that tailors exercises to each trimester whilst explaining what is happening to your body at each stage of your pregnancy. Anya offers insightful, fluff-free, and straight-talking clarity to new mums and mothers-to-be supporting you throughout your pregnancy and fitness journey combined.

As well as covering the fundamentals of Pilates exercises with clear instructions and pictures, moves focus on the pelvic floor and abdominal wall strength, posture, and full-body wellness to support your body during and after pregnancy whilst managing stress, improving mood, mental clarity, and energy. The Pilates for pregnancy book also includes motivational tips from mums who practiced Pilates throughout their pregnancy offering woman-to-woman support on their birth experience and postnatal recovery.

A progressive program, the guide covers: exercises for your baby’s position in the womb, exercises for a better birthing experience, how to protect your back and improve your posture as your baby grows, and pelvic floor exercises. Anya also includes a whole chapter dedicated to the fourth trimester, the three months after you’ve had your baby. Anya gives details on how to maximise the strength of your abdominal muscles to handle your baby bump strengthening them to recover more quickly post-pregnancy and advice on cardio exercises that are safe for you and your baby.

Pilates for Pregnancy is a perfect guide for mothers to be and yoga and Pilates instructors specialising in pregnancy or simply wanting to support their clients better, with clear images, and no-nonsense summaries for a safe workout program. So, if you’re looking for a Pilates pregnancy book for yourself or for someone else as a gift, this should be your go-to option.

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: Bloomsbury Sport (2018)

Price: £16.99 (Waterstones), £13.59 (WHSmith), £12.35 (Amazon)

#4 – Pilates Anatomy Paperback

Pilates Anatomy, Second Edition, explores how Pilates activates key muscles, and how breathing and alignment are linked to balance, core strength, and muscle tone. It’s one you want to look out for in a selection of Pilates books for beginners. With full-colour, detailed illustrations of 46 exercises, demonstrating which muscles are being used for each move. With a whole section dedicated to ‘Personalise Your Practice’, Pilates Anatomy gives its students a clear understanding of how to target muscle groups, and how your workouts impact your physique.

Authors Rael Isacowitz, is a prominent lecturer and founder of the educational organisation ‘Body Arts and Science International’ (BASI), and Karen Clippinger is a professor at California State University, Long Beach. Together they hold over 60 years experience studying, practicing, and teaching dance, anatomy, body placement, and Pilates. From their work, Pilates Anatomy includes exercise modifications to adjust for experience level and physical fitness level, exercise progressions are offered to take moves and poses a step further, and breathing, concentration, and self-awareness techniques are given alongside.

Pilates Anatomy is a book for those who are curious about how Pilates changes the body and for seasoned practitioners and trainers wanting to delve deeper into anatomical theory to customise their practice for their clients’ fitness goals.

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: Human Kinetics (2019)

Price: £19.99 (Waterstones), £17.99 (WHSmith), £17.66 (Amazon)

#5 – Pilates for Rehabilitation

In Pilates for Rehabilitation author, physical therapist, and Yoga Alliance-certified teacher Samantha Wood looks at the use of Pilates to help with physical recovery and rehabilitation with exercises to manage pain, impaired movement, heal injuries, and recover optimal performance.

Pilates for Rehabilitation includes step-by-step instructions for exercises organised by common orthopedic injuries and apparatus use with expert advice and cutting edge research. Each pathology includes accessible guides on how to determine the right program for yourself or your client plus options for modifying and tailoring exercises. Wood also includes progressions for challenging improved muscle groups, injuries, conditions, joints, or tendons.

Pilates for Rehabilitation is clearly organised, inspiring, and well-written with Wood including diagrams, photos, and in-depth summaries of common injuries and pathologies offering goals and program suggestions for clients to achieve their training targets. This Pilates book makes for a great option for instructors to give them the knowledge and confidence necessary to design training programs for their client’s rehabilitation needs. If you’re toying with the idea of instructing yourself, be sure to take a look at our how to become a Pilates instructor guide for all the actionable steps that you need!

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: Human Kinetics (2018)

Price: £39.00 (Waterstones), £37.05 (WHSmith), £35.29 (Amazon)

#6 – The Complete Book of Pilates for Men: The Lifetime Plan for Strength, Power & Peak Performance

By author Daniel Lyon, a Pilates instructor trained by the oldest living protege of Joseph Pilates, this Pilates for Men book offers a self-guided program for all experience levels with 40 ‘traditional mat’ exercises. The book also doubles as one of the best Pilates reformer books with over 60 ‘reformer on the mat’ exercises.

A straightforward and time-efficient program – based on all six principles of pilates, control, concentration, precision, center, and breath – this pilates book for men includes illustrated exercises and easy-to-follow instructions.

Alongside classical Pilates exercises, Lyon provides modifications for reformer exercises in this Pilates reformer book, which can be included in a mat-based routine and modifications to your program in the case of injury. Lyon has tailored his program to target common male problem areas and work with the male body’s natural greater muscle mass, lesser flexibility, and tighter shoulders and hips, to help you achieve a strong, lean, aesthetic customised to you.

This Pilates for men book is one of the great books on Pilates exercises for those who already have some experience, and are searching for a Pilates book with a customisable program tailored to their body.

Available at: Waterstones, Amazon

Published: William Morrow Paperbacks (2005)

Price: £11.99 (Waterstones), £11.99 (Amazon)

#7 – The Pilates Body: The Ultimate At-Home Guide to Strengthening, Lengthening and Toning Your Body- Without Machines

The original bestseller from Brooke Siler, The Pilates Body was released in 2000 and continues to hit lists of best Pilates books twenty years later. Including line drawings, visualisation exercises, and beautiful photos demonstrating workouts alongside clear and accessible step-by-step instructions The Pilates Body is a complete at-home program of mat-based exercises to tone, increase flexibility, and improve balance. It’s therefore one of the most talked about books on Pilates exercises in modern times.

The Pilates Body covers Pilates basics such as proper alignment, offers modifications for those with neck, knee, or lower back pain and over 60 exercises, most with a heavy focus on abdominal strength for back support. Each Pilates move is given a two-page spread for a comprehensive how-to summary. Exercises are divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Each summary includes tips Siler has picked up after decades of training clients including key points to remember when doing the exercise and what not to do to help prevent injury.

Demonstrating an awareness of her target audience Siler includes an inspiring, frank and encouraging disclaimer about the models depicted: “The models in this book have been training in the Pilates method for years. Although their bodies may seem to represent an unrealistic ideal for many, they have worked hard to achieve their fitness goals. I hope in earnest that they do not intimidate but inspire.”

The Pilates Body follows Joseph Pilates’ original 34 exercise routine from beginner to advanced with you adding in progressively more difficult exercises as you build up strength and stamina. The bestseller is a classic and is a great Pilates book for beginners through to instructors.

Available at: Amazon

Published: Michael Joseph (2000)

Price: £3.97 (Amazon)

#8 – Pilates, Second Edition

Also from lecturer and practitioner Rael Isacowitz, Pilates, Second Edition, is a comprehensive guide on Pilates detailing the same workout routine he has used to train Olympians and celebrity fitness instructors. The Pilates exercise book includes foundations of Pilates, mat work, photos, breathing instruction, challenging flow sequences, and provides its reader with a toolkit to design a personalised Pilates regime.

With more than 200 exercises and 50 variations, exercises are organised into blocks according to what part of your body you want to work on and progress from beginner through to advanced levels. A complete, one-stop guide, Pilates, Second Edition goes on to apply instruction on how to use the full range of Pilates apparatus including the reformer, wunda chair, ped-a-pul, arm chair, magic circle, and cadillac. This means that it can also be described as a Pilates reformer exercises book, since it guides the reader through this complex piece of equipment.

Speaking of which, if you’d like further advice on this matter be sure to check out OriGym’s own in-depth exploration of the best Pilates equipment.

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: Human Kinetics Australia (2014)

Price: £19.99 (Waterstones), £17.99 (WHSmith), £16.05 (Amazon)

#9 – Cassey Ho’s Hot Body Year-Round: The Pop Pilates Plan to Get Slim, Eat Clean, and Live Happy Through Every Season

Price: £10.69

From award-winning fitness instructor and host of 4 million subscriber YouTube channel Blogilates, Cassey Ho. Cassey was named “one of the Top 25 Most Influential People in the world in Health and Fitness for 2015” by Greatist, “Top Healthy Living Blog” by Fitness Magazine in 2012 and has been featured on The Dr. Oz Show, and The Wendy Williams Show. Cassey Ho’s Hot Body Year-Round, is a step-by-step of Cassey’s body sculpting POP Pilates.

A Pilates exercise book and nutrition guide, it includes 40 nutritious and clean-eating recipes, and 120 exercises focusing on muscle building using Cassey’s POP Pilates for full-body transformation with personal notes and tips from Cassey. Each exercise is summarised alongside full-colour photographs plus motivational tips for year-round support and encouragement. If you want to learn more about this topic, OriGym offer accredited nutrition courses in the UK, which teaches you everything you need to know to become a qualified Nutritionist.

The book works as an extension to her YouTube channel Blogilates and as a stand-alone introduction to Pilates and a healthier lifestyle, making it a great Pilates book for beginners. With a seventy thirty approach to good nutrition and fitness working together, the book includes Cassey’s personal meal plans and suggested, seasonal grocery lists for foods high in the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Available at: Waterstones, Amazon

Published: Harmony Books (2015)

Price: £13.99 (Waterstones), £11.20 (Amazon)

#10 – PILATES RETURN TO LIFE THROUGH CONTROL: Revised Edition for the 21st Century

The original, from Joseph Pilates himself and William J. Miller, first published in 1945, Pilates’ Return to Life is still one of the best Pilates books available. This book, the revised edition for the 21st Century, is an edited, paperback version of the original edition held at the Library of Congress and available on Amazon.

Pilates’ Return to Life contains exercises, poses, and instructions based on early Greek concepts of balancing body and mind. The book contains all 34 original exercises plus 18 additional pages of 21st-century poses, exercises, and moves such as standing postures, circular movements, and core exercises plus photo sequences.

A complete modern Pilates guide, the book also includes the use of props such as weights, bands, and foam rollers, amongst many more making it perfect for intermediate and advanced practitioners. For exercises with props, four photos are given per demonstration and explanations are clear and concise. Overall Pilates’ Return to Life is a great resource for practitioners looking for a raw, old school manual of Pilates original method.

Available at: Waterstones, Amazon

Published: Presentation Dynamics Inc (2012)

Price: £18.99 (Waterstones), £11.16 (Amazon)

#11 – The Pilates Bible: The most comprehensive and accessible guide to Pilates ever

The Pilates Bible is a comprehensive Pilates book with popular exercises including old favorites, new additions, and the latest medical research. All exercises can be performed with little or no equipment making it a perfect manual for building an at-home program.

The Pilates Bible is the combined work of three authors. Lynne Robinson, DVD host, bestselling author, and founder of Body Control Pilates, a respected, worldwide Pilates organisation with 1,500 teachers. Lynne was listed as one of ‘London’s 300 Most Influential People’ by the London Evening Standard and has been called ‘The Queen of Pilates’ by The Times. Lynne wrote alongside Lisa Bradshaw, Head of Education and Professional Development for Body Control Pilates, and Nathan Gardner, General Manager of Body Control Pilates for the UK.

With sections dedicated to Pilates at the gym, for performing arts, athletes, for new mothers, children, and suffers of chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, and back pain The Pilates Bible is a one-stop guide to support you throughout your fitness journey.

The book is clearly laid-out, instructions are clear and divided into chapters based on fitness levels of beginner, intermediate and advanced. Each level includes 20, 30, and 40-minute exercise plans for each. 2-page spreads are dedicated to each exercise with clear pictures showing poses step-by-step as you would move through them. It’s definitely one of the best Pilates instruction books for those looking for help with the movements themselves!

The Pilates Bible is a great Pilates book for beginners, intermediates, and advanced practitioners living up to its promise of being a complete manual to support you through every stage of your journey.

Available at: Waterstones, Amazon

Published: Kyle Books (2019)

Price: £19.99 (Waterstones), £14.99 (Amazon)

#12 – Pilates Body in Motion: A Practical Guide to the First 3 Years

An unparalleled choice if you’re looking to start your Pilates journey but need to stick to a budget, Pilates Body in Motion: A Practical Guide to the First 3 Years, comes from bestselling author Alycea Ungaro advisory board member of Fitness Magazine and celebrity trainer of names such as Madonna and Uma Thurman.

A global bestseller, Pilates: Body in Motion is a step-by-step Pilates exercises book for mat-based movements, without any need for props. Alycea explains exercise sequences with quick overviews, illustrations, photos showing each sequence as you would move through them, and helpful checklists for what to remember when performing each exercise and what to avoid to prevent injury.

The book includes four programs to help you move from beginner to intermediate to advanced in three years. A few of the 50 classic mat exercises included are the Corkscrew to the Swan Dive, the Open Leg Rocker, and The Hundred to The Wall sequence. Exercises build their way up starting from foundational principles making for a perfect home-based program that allows you to tailor your workout to your body.

Alycea has a good focus on breathing and a ‘life wrecks our bodies so let’s minimise that’ outlook which makes the book overall more encouraging and accessible for beginners at any fitness level. Pilates: Body in Motion is also great for intermediates returning to the exercise program after some time away or simply looking for a fast-reference manual to develop an at-home practice.

Available at: Waterstones, Amazon

Published: DK (2016)

Price: £12.99 (Waterstones), £3.67 (Amazon)

#13 – Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates, The: The Essential Guide to Total Body

One of the best books on Pilates for a complete guide and overview of Pilates with over 260 Pilates exercises. Author Brooke Siler is herself a Joseph Pilates protege, bestselling author of Pilates Body, and is the founder of New York City Pilates studio re:AB Pilates sought after as the most popular Pilates studio in New York.

Describing itself as ‘The Essential Guide to Total-Body Fitness’, this Pilates exercise book delivers everything you need to begin a Pilates fitness journey. Chapters one through to three, ‘What’s Pilates?’, ‘All Your Questions Answered’, and ‘How Pilates Gets You Fit’ cover the fundamentals of Pilates. With comprehensive information on exercises, Brooke gives you all the tools you’ll need to have at your belt before hitting the mat plus clear information on all the benefits of Pilates to rev up your motivation and excitement for getting started.

Chapters six through to eleven match exercise to fitness or health goals with hundreds of exercises to tone thighs, boost metabolism, target chronic pain, maximise mood, and improve posture. Chapter four ‘Pilates For Your Plate’ includes nutrition tips and a breakdown of a ‘Pilates-body diet’ to support your body in building muscle, burning fat, and providing a three-sixty approach to full-body health.

Featured in Vogue, Glamour, and New York Magazine, Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates is one of the best available. Brooke includes photos and diagrams for reference. Explanations are clear and kept short, exercises are appropriate for most ages and organized by level, and tips are given on how to execute exercises without risk of injury. Brooke also advises on how to incorporate Pilates around your work or travel schedule, the best props to support your workout, and Pilates principles to help combat chronic pain, stress, and low energy.

Available at: Waterstones, WHSmith, Amazon

Published: Rodale (2014)

Price: £22.50 (Waterstones), £18.00 (WHSmith), £16.19 (Amazon)

Conclusion

Our definitive list of the best Pilates books has proven that there is something for everyone to read, regardless of whether they’re new to this workout style or have been engaging with the practice for years. Armed with what you now know from reading our in-depth reviews, you should be able to make an informed purchase.

Remember, if you’re looking to break into the fitness industry the best way to do this is through dedicated study. For example, OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teaching qualification is taught by experienced industry professionals, who will impart vital skills and knowledge required to land a successful career.

You can also download our FREE course prospectus here, to learn more about all the qualifications we provide at OriGym.

The post 13 Best Pilates Books To Read This Year appeared first on OriGym Centre of Excellence.

How to Become a Pilates Instructor: Ultimate Guide

Chloe Twist — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Want to know how to become a Pilates instructor, but have no clue where to start? You’re certainly in the right place. We’re going to walk you through everything, including topics such as:

Becoming a Pilates Instructor: Is This the Right Career for You?
What Does a Pilates Career Involve?
What Qualifications Do I Need To Become a Pilates Instructor
How to Choose the Right Pilates Course Provider
Career Prospects of a Pilates Instructor
The Salary of a Pilates Instructor
Pilates Instructor Marketing: How to Set Up Your Own Studio
Career Progression Routes for Pilates Instructors

If you have a passion for health and fitness and are looking to help others reach their full potential, why not work in the industry in a professional capacity? By completing qualifications like OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teacher Training course you can not only deepen your practice but help to enrich the lives of other enthusiasts too.

To learn more about this rewarding qualification, and all the other courses we offer at OriGym be sure to download our FREE course prospectus here.

Become a Pilates Instructor: Is it the right job for you?

This is probably the main question that you have right now but don’t worry, we’re about to cover everything you need to know before you take the plunge.

To help you make your decision, we’ve compiled all of the skills and traits that you should tick the box for before training to become a Pilates instructor.

Be passionate about fitness
Have a lively personality
Have a good degree of physical flexibility
Be interested in Pilates and the knowledge it requires
Willing to communicate and work with large groups
Have a lot of patience (relaxed approach )
Be persistent in your approach
Have organisational skills, particularly if working freelance
Be open to learn new business skills
Follow a reasonably healthy lifestyle
Have a motivational effect on clients

Some parts of this list may speak for themselves but each point is completely valid. You don’t have to be an expert in each field to learn how to become a Pilates instructor, but you should be willing to develop in each area before you consider a Pilates career.

You might want to rethink if this isn’t something that grabs your attention/interest!

However, if you’re thrilled by the idea of working on your own confidence, fitness, knowledge, and motivating large groups of people, carry on reading.

You can get a feel for the knowledge side of things from simply going to a few Pilates classes yourself (if you don’t already). This will give you a feel for what the role requires and involves, and you’ll be able to tell after a couple of sessions whether it’s something that you can picture yourself teaching or not.

Ask yourself questions like:

Can you see yourself taking on a large group?
Can you see yourself working one-to-one with people?
Will you feel uncomfortable with touching people during the sessions? (Pilates requires instructors to correct clients)
Are you able to have patience with clients who struggle to keep up?
Do you have a strong interest in anatomy and the science behind exercise? (If you already have a degree in Exercise Science of a fitness qualification, this could be a good sign)

It goes without saying that this is a career you need to bring a lot of passion to. This is true of the physical side to things, but also the business side.

As most successful Pilates careers are through instructors working freelance or for themselves, this will require some extra skills and willingness to learn.

Are you organised?
Are you willing to work flexibly?
Do you have an interest in marketing?

These things are crucial to have an awareness of when you’re wondering how to become a Pilates instructor.

If you don’t know much about marketing or whether you’d be interested in it, don’t sweat! Marketing can mean anything from online to putting up posters around town. But don’t worry, we’ll cover that later on in this article.

For now, you just need to be enthusiastic to put yourself and your services out there. Would you feel happy with communicating with prospective clients on a regular basis, and effectively selling yourself to them over the phone or via email?

If you’re pretty confident that marketing yourself is something you’d enjoy, then stay with us.

What does a Pilates career involve?

Now that you’ve ticked all the boxes and you’re eager to learn how to become a Pilates instructor, you probably want to know exactly what the job involves.

With a Pilates career, your day-to-day life will depend on a few different factors:

Which type of Pilates you want to teach
Which kind of Pilates instructor you decide to be; freelance or working for an employer?
Whether you want to work full-time or part-time alongside an existing career

If you want to teach mat Pilates for example, then your role will typically be less demanding as there is less risk involved for clients. However, if you teach reformer Pilates, you will have to gain further qualifications and keep a closer eye on your client’s technique.

Don’t let this scare you away though. Becoming a Pilates reformer instructor certainly has its benefits, as your earning potential could soar.

Learning how to instruct this strain of Pilates is more costly and requires more learning time and skill, but it’s a good idea to get qualified as a Pilates reformer instructor to broaden your career options.

If you can teach both reformer Pilates and mat Pilates, you’ll get more clients. Your potential customer base will increase, as different people want to be taught different Pilates methods. It’s that simple!

In a more physical rather than technical way, here’s an idea of what a typical day teaching Pilates could look like:

Guiding clients by correcting their form
Motivating them to push through the initial soreness and perfect their technique
Aiding them in muscle toning, especially with muscles that they don’t use regularly
Helping clients to improve their flexibility, as this is a base skill of Pilates
Focusing on client’s balance, and demonstrating how to master this (especially on the mat prior to the reformer)
Demonstrating each movement with clarity – you really need to love teaching as much as you love the exercise!

As you can see, a Pilates career relies heavily on the teaching side of things. When looking up how become a Pilates instructor, it’s important to remember that you won’t just sit at the front of the class and say ‘follow me’. A Pilates career involves a lot of hands-on work, and is very much a teaching-based role.

For more information on the practice, check out our in-depth exploration on The History of Pilates here.

What qualifications do you need to become a Pilates instructor?

Now that you’ve got a brief understanding of the traits that you should have before you become a Pilates instructor, and of what the role involves, let’s see what you actually need.

Before you can start on a Pilates instructor course, it’s a good idea to pick up a Level 2 fitness qualification, as most will require this (unless it is included on the course).

To teach Pilates reputably and correctly, you will need to find a reliable course provider to study with. We’ll talk about this shortly, but there are actually quite a few options for you to choose from, depending on which way you want to take your Pilates career.

We’ve touched upon mat and reformer Pilates, so you might have an idea about where this is going! But apart from the two main pathways, there are also advanced Pilates courses that can propel your career further:

Pilates specialising in Pre and Postnatal
Pilates specialising in Lower Back Pain
Pilates specialising in Orthopaedic conditions (common conditions)
Pilates specialising in Older Adults

These are just to name the most common specialist Pilates courses. If you’re into education and furthering your expertise, then you’ll be glad to know that these exist!

In answer to the question ‘what qualifications do you need to become a Pilates instructor?’, it depends on what kind of Pilates you want to teach. If you want to teach mat Pilates alongside your existing career, then just a mat Pilates qualification will do.

If you want to teach more advanced methods like reformer Pilates or the specialist areas mentioned above, then gain your basic Level 2 Pilates instructor certification and build upon it.

Once you’ve decided which area of Pilates interests you the most, the next step of your journey is to choose a Pilates instructor course provider.

How to Choose The Right Pilates Course Provider

This is the first hurdle, and also the most important one when you’re looking up how to become a Pilates instructor. Your qualifications are the foundation of your knowledge and will ultimately determine how confident and effective you are whilst delivering Pilates to clients.

How to choose a Pilates instructor course provider:

Are they CIMSPA endorsed?
How good is their pass rate?
Do they provide re-sits free of charge?
Think about their location – is it convenient for you?
Can the course be studied in a flexible manner? Part-Time, Full-Time, or Online?
What study resources do they provide for you?
What will you learn? (check out their prospectus)
Do they have a good employment rate after graduation?
Do they offer post-course support?

It may sound like a lot to take in, but it’s better to get this part right before rushing into a course that isn’t well-suited for you.

Getting a CIMSPA qualification is something you certainly want to look out for in terms of how creditable and legitimate your qualifications will be. Without these endorsements, you risk getting your training from untrustworthy sources.

The most overlooked aspect when it comes to choosing a Pilates instructor course provider is practicality, specifically location. It’s frustrating when a course ticks all of the boxes apart from this one, and that’s understandable – but you should consider it nonetheless.

Imagine beginning a course that is perfect for you only to find that you’re unable to travel there, or that you’re constantly missing workshops due to lateness. You don’t want to waste your money or your time, so make sure your dream course is literally in reach before you sign up!

If your provider weighs up well against this list and is a reasonable distance from you, then we say go for it! There’s nothing better than making the active decision to become a Pilates instructor and kick-start your new fitness career

Conducting further research can also help to make this decision easier, as you will have a greater knowledge of the practice to base your choice on. So, if you’d like to do some further reading check out our guide to the 13 best Pilates books of the year.

Career Prospects when you become a Pilates instructor

Let’s imagine you’ve picked your course and where you want to study… what comes next?

As you may have already picked up previously in this article the majority of Pilates careers are done on a freelance basis, although careers in gyms and health clubs are available.

To give you an idea of what’s out there in terms of being employed under somebody else, we did some research on the most popular job websites for your benefit, using ‘Pilates’ as the keyword.

As you can see, Pilates careers aren’t non-existent. However, there’s not necessarily an abundance in them either, at least not for Pilates instructors that are employed by gyms and health clubs etc.

This is among other reasons why you should consider working independently or setting up your Pilates studio when you become a Pilates instructor.

For example, one reason for Pilates instructors working independently is that you can earn significantly more than the average Pilates instructor salary.

If you work for a health club, they will take a percentage of what you earn away from you. However, when you work for yourself you will keep all of your income, meaning that the hourly rate of your Pilates instructor salary will be higher.

One thing to take note of is that gyms and health clubs will usually provide you with clients, meaning that you don’t have to put as much work into marketing. In most roles, you will have guaranteed clients.

This is great if you need a sense of security, but if you’re feeling slightly adventurous then keep reading; we’re going to talk about Pilates marketing a little later on, which is super helpful if you want to work independently or set up your Pilates studio.

Here’s a summary of the settings you can work in if you become a Pilates instructor, just to give you some ideas in case you want to secure a role in a certain industry!

Career opportunities as a Pilates Instructor:

Pilates studios
Health clubs
Leisure centres
Private gyms
Workplace fitness programmes
Fitness retreats
Exercise referral schemes
Holiday settings and cruise ships

Pilates Instructor Salary

Before venturing into a new career, it’s a good idea to know what to expect from a Pilates instructor salary. This is something that depends on a few factors, such as working independently or under an employer.

If you’re applying to Pilates instructor jobs for the first time, you can expect your Pilates instructor salary to range from around 12k to 18k, depending on your previous experience as well as where your job is based, plus the amount of clients that you are working with per week.

If you go down the one-to-one route, you can expect to earn around £20-£50 per hour. As you can see, this can certainly compliment your current wage and is a great way to make money in your spare time.

If you wish to teach group Pilates sessions after you learn how to become a Pilates instructor then you can charge clients around £5-£12 each, but do consider that room hire costs can alter your take-home Pilates instructor salary in this case.

For those who want to venture into the world of Pilates as freelance instructors or who wish to set up their own business, it’s a little tricky to predict what your overall earnings may be.

If you’re willing to put effort into marketing yourself and your services as well as sometimes working at undesirable times of the day, then your earning potential will be far better than working for an employer.

Pilates marketing: Setting up your Pilates studio

If you’re feeling adventurous and see yourself as the next Mari Winsor, the woman credited with making Pilates famous in the modern world, then you’re in the right place. It’s that determination we like to see!

If opening your Pilates studio is on the cards, then here’s a quick checklist for you to refer back to:

Experience – do you have enough experience to start charging a good price for classes/one-to-one sessions?
Location – think about where your Pilates studio could be based to maximise business. A town or city centre?
Systems – how would you manage your clients and your schedule? Work out all of the mechanics of your business before marketing it. You’ll be putting your best foot forward then!
The studio itself – what does it require for you to work safely and effectively? Is it legally up to scratch? Double check all of this before opening
The grand opening – before you open, promote your studio with offers and discounts! This will spark an interest with the community, and hopefully earn you a flock of clients

Once you’ve mapped everything out and know how your studio will operate, it’s time to get some clients!

#1 – Be GREAT at teaching Pilates

It’s not enough to just enjoy Pilates, you MUST enjoy teaching it before you open your studio.

Make the best impression possible when you open as you are your own brand when you work for yourself, and you’ll be more than just the new fitness fad of the town!

#2 Get online

When it comes to Pilates marketing, getting a website for your business is absolutely vital. By implementing a nice design and good SEO practice, you’ll be able to rank #1 on Google for Pilates in your area.

That means if people search ‘Pilates near me’ or ‘Pilates *insert location here*, they’ll be more or less guaranteed to click on you first. If your studio is in a busy town or city centre, this can drive heaps of clients to your door!

The best news is you can implement SEO yourself with just a little research.

#3 Create social channels

In the fitness industry, social channels are VERY important. Instagram is the one to target with content, whereas Facebook is useful for ads when your business has found its feet.

Encouraging clients to follow your channels as a way of keeping up to date with classes etc. is a great start, as they will see all of the great content that you’re uploading and even share your content with their friends.

This can prompt them to follow you too, and attract them to try your classes (as long as you’re posting often and have good content!)

Some content ideas are:

Video content – (such as clips from sessions, or quick tutorials) – these work particularly well, especially as according to Renderforest, ‘marketers who use video grow revenue 49% faster than non-video users’
Inspirational quotes – these go down very well in the fitness industry on Instagram – check out any hashtag related to fitness and see for yourself!
UGC – user generated content is great for creating brand awareness and trust. Why not ask your clients if you can share their progress pictures down your newsfeed?
Instagram stories – do your research on hashtags and make sure that you use broad ones, e.g. #pilates over #pilatesstudio, as these will get you more viewers. Use stories to show the behind-the-scenes of your brand!

Career Progression When You Become a Pilates Instructor

Whether you decide to work for an employer or start up your own Pilates business, it’s always handy to know what opportunities lie ahead to better your Pilates career.

In terms of career progression, you can actually take on further fitness qualifications that enable you to specialise in different areas of Pilates.

These include:

Antenatal Pilates
Pilates for older adults
Pilates for lower back pain

This can be very beneficial for your career as you can imagine, especially if clients with particular needs begin to approach you, or you decide to branch out into other areas to improve your income.

It’s always a good idea to further your education in the fitness industry, as the more specialised you get the more clients you can provide for.

We do recommend only taking qualifications that have scope to be beneficial for your career though, as it’s no use taking ones that you won’t put to use!

Pilates insurance

When learning how to become a Pilates instructor, finding Pilates insurance is something you want to be clued up on. The first thing that you should do to ensure you’re practising safely and legally is to research relevant Pilates insurance policies.

To save you the trouble, we have listed some trustworthy Pilates insurance options below:

When selecting a Pilates insurance company, be sure to read their terms and conditions thoroughly before signing up. It’s also a great idea to check out reviews on site such as Feefo and Trustpilot just to make sure that you can trust them to cover you properly.

We can’t guarantee this for every one of the providers listed, but usually you are covered for:

Damage to equipment
Lawsuits or claims
Injury to clients
Loss of earnings

As well as this, there are usually options to include extra cover, which is great if that’s what you’re looking for!

Before you go!

Feeling motivated now you know how to become a Pilates instructor? That’s what we like to hear! A career in this industry can be incredibly rewarding and is a great option if you enjoy seeing people improving their health and fitness, and making a full recovery from injuries.

However, if you’re still undecided just know there are plenty of other careers in the fitness industry that are just as rewarding. For example, after completing a Level 3 Diploma in Yoga Teaching you will be able to plan and deliver classes for students of varying skill sets.

To learn more about the different qualifications we offer at OriGym and how they can help you break into the fitness industry, be sure to download our FREE prospectus here!

The post How to Become a Pilates Instructor: Ultimate Guide appeared first on OriGym Centre of Excellence.

Pilates History: OriGym’s Ultimate Guide (2025)

Chloe Twist — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000

Pilates history is a rich and vast subject that goes back to the 19th century. Regardless of whether you’re a fitness professional or a casual enthusiast, it will be of interest to discover where this practice traces its roots.

If you want to study a particular aspect of fitness in greater depth, why not complete a vocational training course with OriGym? For example, OriGym’s Level 3 Diploma in Yoga Teacher Training will not only cover the history of the practice but will also provide students with knowledge and skills to help launch a career!

If you’d like to learn more about our vocational qualifications, be sure to download our FREE course prospectus here!

Pilates History: The Origin of Pilates

It would be rude to talk about Pilates history without starting with Joseph Pilates. They are named after him, after all…

In fact, before it’s more recent rise in popularity (when it was still an exercise for the elite), Pilates history is more or less fully central to Joseph Pilates and his self-made career instructing dancers and athletes in fitness.

To get to this point, we may as well jump right into Joseph Pilates childhood, and where Pilates history began.

As you can tell from this first section of Joseph Pilates life, he was no ordinary 14-year-old. Gaining work within the fitness industry at age 14 in the 19th century seems impressive enough; but what Pilates came to achieve later in his life is even more astonishing.

During his 20s, Pilates studied as many different types of exercises as he could, ranging from gymnastics to yoga and tai chi. This is perhaps why Pilates is regarded as a sort of hybrid of different exercise routines, and why it is so effective and popular, as it kills many birds with one stone.

In 1912 at age 29, he moved to England and got by with professional boxing, circus performing, and training the Scotland Yard (London police force) in self-defence.

He was somewhat of a strongman but original in his methods of building strength. Instead of using heavy weights and building bulk strength, he focused on conditioning the body as a whole.

However, it is thought that he admired Eugen Sandow, who was extremely popular during the Physical Culturist movement, and responsible for the start of the bodybuilding sport.

Pilates’ promising few years in England came to an end with the breakout of WW1, when he was interned by the British authorities due to his German nationality (he was deemed a ‘foreign alien’).

Despite being held as a prisoner of war, Joseph Pilates kept up the morale of his fellow internees by coaching them in self-defence and fitness. He taught them mat exercises, along with those that required minimal equipment but achieved great results.

The place where this all happened was actually Lancaster Castle! So, Pilates history isn’t as far away from us as we think…

After his stint coaching here, he was transferred to another internment camp situated on the Isle of Man and continued to train internees. Before the end of the war, he had time to study fitness and develop his own exercise regime, Contrology, which is now referred to as Pilates.

As the war ended in November 1918 and Joseph was released, he headed back to Germany. This is where he developed Contrology further, and started to put it into practise in the professional world.

Rudolph von Laban was one of the big names that he worked with, not to mention Hanya Holm.

Laban established his own dance theatre company and school in Germany and became part of the elite.

He is famous for creating the dance notation that is most commonly used by professional dancers today.

Holm has been branded as one of the ‘Big Four’ dancers who founded modern dance in America, to give an idea of how popular she was at the time. After working with Joseph, she included some of his Contrology movements in her own exercise classes.

Joseph also coached the Hamburg police force in self-defence during his time in Germany and was asked to coach the German army in Contrology. He turned down this offer, apparently due to his wish to move to America, and his conflicting political beliefs.

In 1923, he bit the bullet and left for America in the hopes of taking Contrology with him and spreading its popularity.

He met a nursery teacher named Clara on the boat to America, who also has a place in Pilates history. They became a couple shortly after meeting, and she was known as his wife until his death in 1967 (although he is rumoured to have been married before).

Clara was apparently known as the preferred teacher of Pilates by some, as she took an active role in delivering the classes herself.

1926 was the year that Joseph and Clara set up the first Contrology (Pilates) studio in New York. It was shared with the NYC Ballet, which helped the pair to gain business straight away. They became very popular within dance circles, and it wasn’t long before top ballet dancers were coming to them for training and rehabilitation.

Their reputation only grew from here and actresses, actors, and athletes flocked to their door. Contrology became very popular with these groups as it was focused mainly on strength, flexibility, and stamina, rather than on using heavy equipment and bulking up excessively.

During his career, Joseph wrote and published books on the topic of Contrology, the most popular being ‘Return to Life Through Contrology’, and ‘Your Health’. We’ll talk more about Contrology books later in the article, so keep your eyes peeled!

Joseph and Clara taught Contrology classes together, and even had ‘disciples’ who carried on their work after each of their deaths.

They either taught slight variations of Contrology, or the original technique under the name of ‘Pilates’, made up of everything that they had learned directly from Joe and Clara in their classes.

Joseph Pilates died at age 83, in 1967 in New York. He was rumoured to have died in a fire, but the cause of death was emphysema, from smoking cigars.

If learning this information already has you gripped and excited to pursue this role, be sure to check out OriGym’s article on ‘How to Become a Pilates Instructor‘.

Pilates books

So, now you’ve had a brief look into Joe’s life, it’s time to jump into some other elements of Pilates history.

We said earlier that we were going to talk about Pilates books, so here’s some of the best to be released over the years.

Your Health

Author: Joseph Pilates

Amazon rating: 4.5 stars

First published in 1934
Is a theoretical based fitness book, and details Joe’s early findings on the topics of health and fitness
It focuses on his idea of a ‘balanced body and mind’, and how he was influenced by early Greek methods of fitness (possibly due to his Greek ancestry)

Return to Life Through Contrology

Author: Joseph Pilates

Amazon rating: 4.2 stars

First published in 1945
It has 16 pages from Pilates himself, and the rest are instructions for Pilates exercises (there are 34 in total)
It focuses on having a ‘balanced body and mind’ as ‘Your Health’ does, and this is extremely prevalent in each of the 34 exercises handpicked for the book
The 2012 revised edition includes some extra content about Pilates history, and how Pilates has changed since the first edition was published
It includes some extra Pilates exercises with the use of simple props such as weights, poles, and bands

Pilates for Life: How to improve strength, flexibility, and health over 40

Author: Lynne Robinson and Carmela Trappa

Amazon rating: 4.9 stars

First published in 2014
Written by the founder of Body Control Pilates, one of the most popular organisations in Pilates history
Includes step-by-step instructions for Pilates workouts
Boasts exercises for those post-surgery, or who are reading Pilates books for rehabilitation; perfect for giving you ideas to try with clients like this!

Pilates for Runners

Author: Harri Angell

Amazon rating: 4.9 stars

First published in 2017
Very specific ideas for those who want to work on the power and strength behind their running
For runners of any level, which makes it ideal for PTs to use for their clients! (They will range in age and ability)
Gives example exercises for clients to practise in order to prevent injury whilst running

Pilates Anatomy

Author: Rael Isacowitz

Amazon rating: 4.7 stars

First published in 2011
Includes illustrations of each Pilates instruction within the book
Gives a great insight from a scientific and anatomical aspect
Can be used to show clients which muscles they are working in a visual way; they’ll be motivated to get on the mats now!
Gives info on breathing, posture, and alignment, reinforcing Joseph Pilates’ ideas

Pilates for Life: The most straightforward guide to Teaching Pilates for Postural Faults

Author: Jane Paterson

Amazon rating: 4.1 stars

First published in 2008
Works as a manual for those wanting to teach Pilates
Gives great advice for teaching those wanting to solve common medical conditions through Pilates
Expert advice from a Nurse, Pilates teacher, and Member of the Royal Academy of Dance; not many Pilates books can boast this!

Pilates for Life: The most straightforward guide to achieving the body you want

Author: Darcey Bussell

Amazon rating: 4.4 stars

First published in 2005
Written by a former Principal of the Royal Ballet (she was given this title when she was only 19), who practised Pilates throughout and alongside her career
Promotes the health benefits of Pilates in a realistic, easy-to-follow way
Introduces beginners to Joseph Pilates’ core regime and bodyweight exercises
One of the best Pilates books for personal trainers to use when encouraging clients to take up the exercise

Check out OriGym’s expert guide on the best Pilates Books to read, for further shopping advice!

Best Pilates Equipment in Pilates History

How could we write a Pilates history article and leave out the best Pilates equipment?

After all, most of it was invented by Joseph himself, and it’s interesting to see where the ideas behind the most commonly used and best Pilates equipment came from.

Pilates mat

In terms of the best Pilates equipment, it is the most inexpensive but still a great start (and fundamental to ‘mat Pilates’)
It acts as a cushion for the body whilst the trainer performs floor-based Pilates exercises
A must for most Pilates exercises to prevent injury
The simplest form of Pilates exercise, and also the most important one to grasp before using apparatus

The arc

Inexpensive, effective, and simple to use
Very versatile despite its simplest shape; can be used with or without attachment for a variety of exercises
Seen often in group training sessions

The Ring (Not Gollum’s)

Perhaps the most inexpensive piece of equipment
Invented by Pilates to increase the resistance of some movements. It makes it easier to build muscle whilst doing Pilates, instead of just building flexibility – a great investment for those who want to use Pilates to tone up

He apparently saw potential in the metal rings that held the barrel together, and so the Pilates ring was born!

The ladder barrel

It started out as an empty beer barrel (this is where Joseph Pilates first got the idea from!)
It is now made from wood and leather, making it much more practical and comfier than its earlier model…
It is used for movements that correct the spine
The exercises that make use of this are some of the most challenging in comparison to others, earning the ladder barrel its place on the best pilates equipment list

Wunda Chair

Almost always found in Pilates studios
Looks like a box, but has one side attached to springs that trainers can press down on to work their muscles
The original version of the wunda chair doubles as furniture (this is how Joseph designed it)
Now, they are beginning to hit mainstream use, due to the commercialisation of exercise equipment companies (this could be a good thing if your clients want to start Pilates at your gym!)

Pilates reformer

It may look like a medieval torture device at a first glance, but it is an advanced piece of Pilates equipment (we promise!)
It boasts a good amount of springs and pulley systems, which seem intimidating but aren’t too complicated
One of the most effective ways for working against resistance in Pilates exercises

If you’re looking for the finest products on the market to date, be sure to check out OriGym’s guide on 21 essential pieces of Pilates equipment here.

Benefits of Pilates

There’s no use in going through Pilates history without having a quick recap on the benefits of Pilates. You’ve probably picked some of these up along the way, but here are the benefits of Pilates that have become well-known throughout Pilates history.

Benefits of Pilates VS Yoga

The idea of various stretches and poses that work as a rehabilitation for your entire body may remind you of another exercise discipline…

That’s right, we’re going to look at the benefits of Pilates vs yoga.

Yoga is commonly known as a wellbeing activity as it is very mind, body, and spirit focused. It increases the flexibility of the body, as well as having instant calming effects and boosting mental health.

We’re definitely not here to slate yoga, as we believe it can be essential to people looking to boost their overall health. It’s certainly something that will do no one any harm!

However, we DO think that comparing the benefits of Pilates vs yoga will prove helpful to our readers, especially if they’re stuck for time and they’re trying to choose between the two.

One of the main and most obvious benefits of Pilates vs yoga would be that Pilates makes use of exercise machines, rather than just bodyweight for resistance during exercises. As you can see from our section on the best Pilates equipment, there is a huge range that targets very different parts of the body.

When it comes to the benefits of Pilates vs yoga, it all boils down to what you want. If you’re looking to build strength and muscle alongside strengthening your mind, then Pilates is the one for you.

If you have time for both though, then you should definitely take the opportunity!

Pilates History: Modern Pilates

Modern Pilates differ somewhat from early Contrology. The exercises themselves haven’t changed too much, but the way that they are sometimes taught and received is a different story.

One modern Pilates torch carrier is Mari Winsor, who has been credited on many occasions for making

Pilates famous, and making it available to the everyday public.

Winsor opened a Pilates studio in L.A., 1990. She took Joseph Pilates techniques, and created a modern Pilates routine of her own, called ‘dynamic sequencing’. This was a success with celebrities in the U.S., and Winsor wanted to progress her influence.

She began to study with Romana Kryzanowska, one of Joseph Pilates’ students, in 1992. Kryzanowska was the one who took the reins of his Contrology studio after his death, so she was definitely a useful source of information when it came to perfecting the Pilates technique.

Mari gained a certification in the Joseph Pilates technique after studying with Kryzanowska for a year and felt ready to share what she had learned with the general public.

It’s hard to tell whether Windsor was solely responsible for the modern Pilates movement, but it’s clear that she at least made an impact. Studying with Kryzanowska certainly gave her the right to spread the Pilates technique, anyway!

What we do know is that Windsor’s infomercial on Pilates in 2003 was a huge success, and did seem to get the ball rolling even further. She sold over 50 million programs, and we can’t argue that that’s impressive.

You will have heard of Pilates retreats. They are almost a definition of modern Pilates, apart from the group Pilates classes that are now available at most gyms (things have come a long way since the New York studio in 1926!)

Here’s a list of popular Pilates retreats in the UK, incase you want to give one a try:

Pilates History FAQs

#1 How did Pilates originate?

Joseph Pilates created Contrology in the 1920s, which became known worldwide as ‘Pilates’ in its rise in popularity

#2 Can you lose weight by doing Pilates?

Pilates focuses on strength conditioning and building muscle. The more muscle you build, the more fat you burn, even when you’re not training.

Pilates isn’t an intense cardio workout, but it can still aid weightloss if done consistently alongside a nutritious diet.

#3 What did Joseph Pilates die of?

Joseph Pilates died of emphysema, due to smoking too many cigars during his lifetime. He died in 1967 at the age of 83. He was the most prevalent figure in Pilates history.

#4 How many times a week should I do Pilates?

Like jogging or going to the gym, Pilates should be done at a minimum of around 3-4 times a week in order to see a real difference. If you can do it daily, then go for it!

#5 What are the 6 principles of Pilates?

Centering
Concentration
Control
Flow
Precision
Breath

Joseph Pilates stated that these were the main principles behind his regime. He famously said:

‘Breathing is the first act of life and the last. Our very life depends on it. Since we cannot live without breathing, it is tragically deplorable to contemplate the millions and millions who have never mastered the art of correct breathing.’

This isn’t to say that one is more important than another, but he took the 6 main principles seriously!

Before you go!

Armed with your knowledge regarding the history of Pilates, you can deepen your own practice and even help to enrich the experience of others.

Speaking of which, if helping others is something you’re passionate about then you should consider pursuing vocational training. For example, after completing OriGym’s Level 3 Yoga Teacher Training, you will be able to plan and deliver classes to students of varying skill sets, deepening their appreciation for fitness.

Alternatively, you can download our FREE course prospectus to discover a qualification you’re passionate about!

The post Pilates History: OriGym’s Ultimate Guide (2025) appeared first on OriGym Centre of Excellence.