Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear to Pilates Class?

When attending a Classical Pilates session at our studio, we recommend wearing comfortable, form-fitting clothing that allows for full range of motion and stays in place during exercises. Long pants or leggings are best, as they offer coverage in various positions and help maintain proper hygiene when using shared Pilates apparatus.

To protect both you and the equipment:

• Avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, or metal hardware, which can scratch the apparatus.
• Remove watches, bracelets, and other accessories before class.

Footwear:
For hygiene and safety, we have a no-barefoot policy. Please bring a clean pair of grip socks to change into upon arrival—do not wear the same socks you traveled in. Grip socks help prevent slipping and support your connection with the equipment. Keep in mind that each brand fits differently, so you may need to try a few to find your perfect match.

Lotions & Fragrances:
Please avoid wearing perfume, makeup, bronzers, or lotions, as they can transfer onto and stain the equipment.

   If you’ve ever searched for Pilates classes near me or browsed videos online, you’ve likely noticed that not all Pilates is the same. That’s because there are two primary styles: Classical Pilates and Contemporary Pilates. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right path for your body and goals.

What Is Classical Pilates?

Classical Pilates is the original method developed by Joseph Pilates, rooted in a precise sequence of exercises performed on specialized equipment like the Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair. This style emphasizes:

• Structured routines that build strength, flexibility, and control
• Flowing transitions that connect each movement
• Consistency and progression, allowing you to master the method over time

While it’s disciplined and rigorous, Classical Pilates still allows for thoughtful modifications to meet individual needs. It’s a full-body system that promotes functional movement, coordination, and long-term results.

What Is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates refers to Pilates exercises performed on the Reformer apparatus. Both Classical and Contemporary styles use the Reformer, but how it’s used depends on the instructor’s training. In Classical Reformer Pilates, the exercises follow a specific order and technique. In Contemporary Reformer Pilates, the sequences may vary widely and often incorporate modern fitness trends or physical therapy principles.

Why Are There So Many Types of Pilates?

The variety you see in studios and online comes down to whether the instructor teaches Classical Pilates or Contemporary Pilates. Contemporary Pilates is more flexible and often blends Pilates with other fitness modalities. This can lead to a wide range of class styles—from boot camp-style workouts to gentle restorative sessions.

As someone trained in both, I initially studied Contemporary Pilates but found it lacked the structure and results I was seeking. When I discovered Classical Pilates, everything clicked. It offered the foundational strength, functional movement, and clarity of purpose that had been missing. That’s why I teach Classical Pilates—it works, and it works for life.

Yes! At Classical Pilates of Long Island, we use the Reformer—and so much more. As a fully equipped Classical Pilates studio, we teach the entire Pilates system, which includes the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, High Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, and Mat.

Rather than focusing on just one piece of equipment, every session at CPLI is a full apparatus session. That means your Pilates practice is thoughtfully structured to include a variety of apparatus, each chosen to support your body’s needs and progress.

We organize your Pilates education systematically, toggling through different equipment each week. This approach ensures:

• A deeper understanding of the Classical Pilates method
• Balanced development of strength, flexibility, and control
• A personalized experience that evolves with your body

Whether you’re new to Pilates or returning to the method, you’ll learn how to work confidently on each apparatus in a way that’s safe, effective, and empowering.

Joseph Pilates famously recommended practicing four times a week to experience the full benefits of the method. At Classical Pilates of Long Island, we support this ideal with a balanced approach: two in-studio instructional sessions combined with at-home Pilates practice.

This blend of guided and independent work helps you:

• Build strength and flexibility consistently
• Deepen your understanding of the Classical Pilates system
• Develop body awareness and confidence in your movement

We provide supplemental materials and references to make your home practice easy, effective, and aligned with what you’re learning in the studio. You will have the tools and the support to practice Pilates every day of the week—on your schedule.

Consistency is key, and this structured routine ensures you get the most out of every session, both in and out of the studio.

No! Pilates is not slow—it’s intelligent. Think of it like learning a new language. When you first start speaking a language, it feels awkward, halting, and unfamiliar. But over time, with practice and focus, you begin to understand the rhythm, cadence, and flow. The same is true for your Pilates practice.

At first, Pilates may feel slow because your body is learning a new movement vocabulary. But that doesn’t mean the method itself is slow—it means you’re in learning mode, which is exactly where you need to be to make real progress.

If you’re looking for a workout where you just pick up a weight and put it down, Classical Pilates may not be for you. This method requires concentration, memory, and sincere effort—both in the studio and at home. But if you commit to learning and remembering each movement, you’ll unlock the full benefits of the method: strength, control, flexibility, and lasting transformation.