The Principles of Pilates
Ever wondered what makes Pilates, well… Pilates? It’s not just movement on a mat, and it’s certainly not just another workout trend. Pilates is built on six key principles and without them, it loses its essence. These principles are what separate Pilates from the ‘Pilates-inspired’ classes popping up everywhere, where the Method is often diluted in favour of a quick sweat-session.
At Revere, we honour these foundations. If you’ve taken a Revere the Mat or Arc class, you’ve already experienced the difference. This isn’t just bodyweight movement or stretching. Mat Pilates, in particular, is where the integrity of the Method shines. It’s where you refine your control, movement patterns, and body awareness, which all translate beyond the studio into your everyday. And while Pilates isn’t about pushing to the point of exhaustion, pairing it with other forms of exercise makes your routine even more effective, (hello Revere the Burn and Revere the Barre!!).
So, what are the Pilates Principles,
and why do we apply them in every class?
-
It’s your anchor. Coordinated breath guides movement and supports your core, rather than just filling the lungs we use it aid movement and control without bracing or holding the breath.
-
Pilates asks you to be present. Every rep, every transition, every cue, every small adjustment matters.
-
Moving from your core creates stability and strength that radiates outward.
-
No flailing limbs here! Every movement is deliberate, keeping quality over quantity.
-
t’s not about doing more, but about doing it well. Small refinements make a huge difference.
-
Pilates is movement, not static poses. When connected, exercises feel seamless and natural.
When we apply these principles, we’re not just ‘doing Pilates’, we’re practicing a method that strengthens, restores, and refines how we move. Like an iceberg, there's a lot more to these principles than what we see at the surface.
