Movement & More 2026 and beyond

I love exploring, studying and self - development. As Movement Teachers and Healers reflect on body maintenance programs, creating a tool kit that supports us in our practice is essential. Pilates is far more than movement. With the changes in the wellness industries recently, I ask myself about what additions to a profound methodology are necessary to make it work while keeping it interesting and sustainable. These days we can find incredible studios with stylish layouts. Their lists of extensive wellness offerings also add sauna, compression pants, sound baths and puppy yoga. Does management put this on surveys, do we ask for all of this? Do we want all of this under the umbrella of Pilates/ yoga or strength base studios? Are these the right places for these additions?

Perhaps I am old fashioned. A good healthy dose of change in the industry is important but is the education platform catching up on all those demands? Are the staff professionally trained and can they maintain the cost and challenges that such a business brings with it.

For me, I'm still using the old-fashioned way to explain the categories of Pilates methodology. There is classical Pilates, studio Pilates, mat work Pilates and reformer Pilates. When I must put the spotlight on all these different services it really becomes clear that everything has its place. I think it is important not to be misled by information on classes, downgrading the industry and misunderstanding the concept of Pilates. 

Often, I have asked myself if it's too late to highlight the importance of proper education to support a methodology that helps so many people. 

I have worked in Physio and Osteo based studios, and I truly enjoyed the clinical Pilates. It gave me everything I needed to know to work with people undergoing post-surgery, injuries and post and pre-natal issues.

Clinical Pilates works like this 

One-on-one assessment and induction: Before attending your first session you’ll need to have a biomechanical assessment and induction with one of our qualified physiotherapists, or clinical Pilates Instructors. That way we’ll be able to ensure that the exercise sessions are personalised for an optimal outcome. This practice used to be the norm. The classes were tailored to the person’s needs. Class size was from 1:1 up to 3 max 4 people in a clinical Pilates class. Studios offered to support clients with specific needs, pain, injuries and limitations. 

Pilates Studios fully equipped for delivering Classical Pilates are still strongly in demand. 

In a classical Pilates class, the movements practiced, aim to stay as close as possible to Joseph Pilates’ original teachings. This includes the routines and movements themselves, how you execute them, as well as the order they are performed—known as sequencing. While some elements may be unique to that Pilates instructor or studio, the goal is to stay true to original Pilates roots.

Mat Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing overall body awareness, mobility and stability. Performed on a mat using body weight and props for resistance, it incorporates controlled movements, precise breathing, and concentration to build stability and alignment throughout the body.

Mat Pilates is incredibly versatile; it can be a gentle introduction for beginners or a demanding workout for seasoned athletes looking to cross-train. Progression happens naturally as you gain strength and control, allowing you to move into more advanced variations of exercises at your own pace. The best part is that it’s all low-impact and accessible for every fitness level.

CONTEMPORARY PILATES

Contemporary Pilates encompasses any modern iteration or deviation from Joseph Pilates’ classic Pilates movements. Modifications of Pilates movements can be used for rehabilitation purposes, for those with limited mobility, or even to blend Pilates with other exercise routines such as weightlifting or yoga. Modern Pilates also can incorporate equipment that makes the movements more accessible, such as yoga blocks, bands, rollers, and Pilates rings.

Reformer uses a specialised bed with a sliding carriage, springs, and straps to create guided resistance. This setup strengthens and mobilises the body through fuller ranges of motion, with tension that can be dialled up or down for any level. The “guided resistance” feels incredibly supportive. Unlike lifting a free weight, the springs provide constant tension through the entire movement, which helps you maintain control and proper form.

This controlled load is especially effective at correcting natural imbalances developed through day-to-day life, like hunching over a desk or always carrying a bag on one shoulder. The benefits of Reformer Pilates include restoring symmetry, balance, and functional strength. A class might feature footwork to align the legs and pelvis, long box exercises to strengthen the back, or standing lunges on the carriage to challenge your stability.

My recommendation:

Consider your goals and preferences! Most people find the best results come from mixing both, so you get the energy of Mat and the deep activation of Reformer. Additional suggestion: smaller class sizes are more beneficial! 

I hope that the future brings a Movement community that brings new Teachers back to the roots and also allows room for creativity and expansion for business in the best possible way. It's about the quality and care we deliver in teaching this wonderful concept.

There are some great studios in Melbourne who deliver very good teacher training, and I've been following them for the past decade. One thing stands out that those studios have been able to expand and collaborate with other studios as well as teacher training, Australia wide. This brings me so much joy. As a mentor in the past, I love seeing that those places still exist. 

For various reasons I was educated through the FAMO (Fascia Movement) so I believe that this concept will be long standing, resource oriented and science based. Designed to benefit life in its many facets, FAMO enhances vitality and inner ease. Movement becomes more fluid and springy, the body more adaptable and resilient.

This body mind training by Karin Gurtner has been a great addition to my Pilates Education which I also completed with the Art of Motion Academy. 

I wish for the new teachers to keep up the self practice, stay connected with your teacher community and mentors and stick to a concept that is in line with Pilates and with contemporary Training institutions that don't bypass the principles and guidelines. 

Thanks to leading professionals in the industry who offer professional and comprehensive teacher training. It will be wonderful to keep Pilates alive through their dedication and love of the method.