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| Pilates - Classic vs. Contemporary
Pilates, a form of exercise developed by health and fitness visionary Josef Pilates in the 1920s, is so popular today, that it is common to see a Pilates studio on every strip mall and in every gym. But what kind of Pilates are they really offering? In the recent years, the theory of Pilates has branched off into three similar, but distinct styles; Classic, West Coast and Contemporary.
 Pilates Classic-Style Pilates (East Coast Pilates) refers to the original method developed and taught by Joseph H. Pilates himself. The instructors were either taught by Pilates himself or adhere as closely as possible to his philosophy and style of teaching. The following are valid providers of Classic Pilates instruction, and offering training and certification; Original Pilates®, Power Pilates®, Romana’s Pilates®, The Pilates Studio (of NY)®, The Pilates Method Alliance®.
 Pilates West Coast Pilates – The Pilates method was slightly modified in 1971, when Ron Fletcher opened a studio in Los Angeles. He continues to train Pilates’ instructors there to this day. He made some adaptations to some of Josef’s equipment work, selected themes and made it more centered around floor exercises. Fletcher’s work resulted in several new Pilates’ products, including Fletcher Percussive Breathing and Fletcher Towelwork.
 Pilates Contemporary Pilates is the modern version of Pilates, most often available in dance studios and public gyms. It was developed by Moira Stott-Merrithew, who herself was a student of Pilates’ most famous pupil, Romana Kryzanowska. Stott Pilates is Pilates for the 21st century. The exercise order was rearranged, breathing and movement patterns changed. Probably most important was the change in the way the spine is utilized in the exercises, in the neutral position according with its natural curvature. Stott Pilates respects the philosophy and teachings of Joseph Pilates, while making use of the science and technology available to us now.
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