Where Pilates Began: A discussion on its history and how it compares to yoga
A discussion on the history of Pilates and how it compares to yoga
Pilates is a familiar feature in today’s gyms and health centres, but its roots trace back to Joseph Pilates, who created the method in the early 20th century. His personal approach to exercise gradually evolved into the Pilates practice we know today. While it’s often compared with yoga, barre, and other mind–body classes, Pilates has its own distinct style and focus. In this article, I’ll explore where it began and how it compares to similar exercise options.
After developing his approach, partly during World War 1 where he assisted the injured and sick with their rehabilitation, Joseph Pilates began sharing his method when he moved to New York in the 1920s. He and his wife, Clara, opened a small studio where dancers, performers, and athletes amongst others came to learn his exercises. An appealing feature of this form of exercise may have been the focus on the mind-body connection that perhaps felt different from the more vigorous fitness trends of the time. Over the years his method evolved and eventually spread around the world.
Although modern schools of Pilates vary, most approaches still focus on the guiding principles of concentration, control, centring, alignment and coordinated breathing. These principles shape the way the exercises are performed. Instead of rushing through movements, Pilates encourages people to slow down and move with purpose. My Pilates classes, like many others, also emphasise use of the core, a term often used to describe the muscles around the centre of the body that help support stable balanced movement.
How Pilates Evolved Into Modern Practice
Over time, the original Pilates exercises have been adapted to include large equipment such as the reformer or small props like rings, balls, or foam rollers. We often use resistance bands in Katie’s Pilates. Some classes, like mine, lean towards mindful mobility, whilst others feel more athletic and dynamic. This range allows people to choose a style that suits their fitness level, health goals, and physical limitations.
One of the reasons Pilates remains popular is that instructors can tailor the approach to different experience levels within the same class. Beginners usually start with simple smaller movements, focusing on coordination, control and awareness, whilst more experienced participants might progress to flowing sequences. I love teaching the basics to beginners and then providing harder options of the same movements to those seeking a stronger challenge.
How Pilates Compares with Yoga
Pilates is often compared to yoga, and whilst the two share some similarities, they also feel quite different. Both focus on mindful movement and breathing, and both are typically taught in a calm, structured environment. However, Pilates tends to be more exercise-focused, using repeated movements to build control and stability, while yoga typically incorporates more stretching, flowing postures or held postures. Neither is inherently better than the other—many people, including myself enjoy both for different reasons. My one-hour classes incorporate a ten-minute mindful relaxation session to promote a peaceful and calm end the class.
Choosing the Right Class for You
Ultimately, the best choice depends on what type of movement you enjoy and need at this stage of your life. For those drawn towards slow, controlled, mindful exercises with a strong emphasis on alignment, technique and body awareness, Katie’s Pilates might be a great fit. If you’re curious to try a session, you're welcome to come along as a one-off before committing to a block of classes. As we're fortunate to have such a variety of exercise options in and around Hook, there’s plenty to explore. I look forward to hearing from you if you’d like to try my warm and welcoming weekly sessions in Hook Village Halls. Booking is required in all classes, so feel free to reach out and book in. All my class details can be found here. Start by emailing me to enquire and book in today!