What Is Classical Pilates?
And Why Gratz Equipment Matters to us
What is Classical Pilates?
Classical Pilates is the original method of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, taught in the exact sequence and on the apparatus he designed himself. It differs from Contemporary Pilates, which adapts his exercises, sequencing and equipment in various modernised forms. At Stourbridge Pilates Rooms, we teach Classical Pilates as it has been passed down through generations of teachers, using authentic Gratz equipment.
Classical Pilates vs Contemporary Pilates: what's the difference?
The two methods may share the same origin but differ in practice. If you're looking for the method as it was originally taught, Classical Pilates is what to search for and it's what we teach at Stourbridge Pilates Rooms.
Exercise order
Classical Pilates: Fixed sequence, developed by Joseph Pilates
Contemporary Pilates: Varies by teacher/studio
Equipment
Classical Pilates: Original-design apparatus (e.g. Gratz)
Contemporary Pilates: Often modernised or modified equipment
Teaching lineage
Classical Pilates: Traced directly back through teacher generations to Joseph Pilates
Contemporary Pilates: May draw on multiple methods and influences
Focus
Classical Pilates: Whole-body integration, precision, breath
Contemporary Pilates: Often adapted for specific fitness trends
What is Gratz equipment and why does it matter? Gratz is the original manufacturer of Joseph Pilates' apparatus designs — reformers, chairs, barrels and the guillotine tower — built to his exact specifications. Many studios use equipment inspired by these designs but manufactured differently, which changes the spring tension, resistance feel and precision of movement. Stourbridge Pilates Rooms is the only fully Gratz-equipped, dedicated Classical Pilates studio in the Black Country, meaning every piece of apparatus in the studio — reformers, chairs, barrels and guillotine — is authentic. What does "third-generation teacher" mean? At Stourbridge Pilates Rooms, third-generation teacher means we have been trained by a teacher who was themselves trained by one of Joseph Pilates' original students — an unbroken teaching lineage passed down through three generations, rather than certification through a modern, standardised course. At Stourbridge Pilates Rooms, our teachers hold this lineage, having trained under teachers connected directly back to the source of the method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Classical Pilates harder than regular Pilates?
Classical Pilates is precise rather than harder — every class is tailored to the individual, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners, so difficulty depends on your session, not the method itself.
Do I need experience to try Classical Pilates?
No. No previous experience is needed — beginners are welcomed with an introductory package that includes a private lesson, a mat class and a reformer class.
What's the difference between a Reformer class and a Classical Pilates class?
"Reformer" refers to one specific piece of apparatus (the reformer), while "Classical Pilates" refers to the whole method, taught across multiple pieces of equipment — reformer, chair, barrel and mat — in the original sequence.
Where can I try Classical Pilates on authentic Gratz equipment in the Black Country?
Stourbridge Pilates Rooms, at 124 High Street, Stourbridge, is the only fully Gratz-equipped, dedicated Classical Pilates studio in the Black Country.