Pilates was created in the early 1900’s by Joseph Pilates in order to help others increase strength and flexibility. Exercise professionals have built on traditional Pilates since that time, creating variations of styles of Pilates. There are some very popular types of Pilates – like reformer pilates – and other lesser known kinds – like STOTT Pilates.

Types of Pilates

Pilates is one of the most popular exercise classes of 2022, with hundreds of thousands of people taking classes every day. Interested in taking one for yourself? Read on to find out more about the different types of Pilates.

The best types of Pilates for any experience level

There are many different types of Pilates with varying levels of popularity. Each has their own strengths and weaknesses, so make sure to learn about each in advance of your next class. These are the most popular types of Pilates:

• Contemporary Pilates
• STOTT Pilates
• Reformer Pilates
• Classic Pilates
• Mat Pilates
• Winsor Pilates

Contemporary Pilates

Contemporary Pilates combines classical techniques with contemporary exercises. This method of Pilates builds on traditional Pilates, but updates certain movements to match current research. Contemporary Pilates is very popular with rehabiliation.

STOTT Pilates

STOTT Pilates incorporates techniques from rehab and movements specialists to alleviate pressure. The main difference between STOTT Pilates and traditional Pilates is the emphasis on posture. STOTT Pilates focuses on maintaining a natural curve of the back, rather than a rigid straight line.

Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates adds resistance via a reformer machine. This can help improve posture and coordination. Reformer Pilates is one of the most popular forms of Pilates and it is what people typically picture when someone mentions the workout.

The reformer machine can increase the intensity of Pilates, so see if you can take a beginner Pilates class if you are a new.

Classic Pilates

Classic Pilates is the traditional system created by Joseph Pilates that uses both mat and apparatus work. Joseph Pilates invented Pilates in the early 1900’s to help dancers and soldiers increase their flexibility and strength. But now Pilates is one of the most popular types of workouts you can take.

Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates utilizes a yoga mat and focuses on core strength and flexibility. Mat Pilates requires no equipment and is a core killer.

Winsor Pilates

Winsor Pilates is a form of Pilates that is a 20-minute workout using specific, nontraditional exercises to maximize results. Winsor Pilates is one of the newest forms of Pilates, created in the late 90’s by Mari Winsor. She helped to popularize Pilates by creating this easy to understand style of Pilates.