Altum Pilates Presents

Fundamentals of Classical Pilates: Intensives Programme

A 4-week group class series where we dive into the roots of the original Pilates method created by Joseph Pilates and learn the foundational principles and exercises of this time-honoured discipline.

Curious about the origins of Pilates?

Ever wondered what sets Classical Pilates apart from the contemporary styles of Pilates? Dive into the roots of the original Pilates method with our Fundamentals of Classical Pilates Intensives Programme, a group class series where we explore the foundational principles of the original form of Pilates as created by Joseph Pilates, while being introduced and challenged by the exercises that define Classical Pilates.

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Upcoming Intakes

Each intake is capped at only 5 participants, to ensure high quality instruction and close guidance from our certified Pilates teachers for each client.

We encourage you to sign up as soon as possible to ensure you reserve your spot. Look out for our upcoming intakes here, or email us to be added to the waitlist.


Person performing an exercise on a Pilates reformer machine in a room with a clock and large window.

What exactly is Classical Pilates?


You’ve likely seen the Instagram and TikTok videos, and noticed your friends becoming obsessed with Reformer classes, but what exactly is Pilates? And what is the difference between Classical Pilates, “Fitness Pilates,” and Contemporary Pilates?

Classical Pilates refers to the original method as Joseph Pilates intended—staying as close as possible to his exercises and the precise order in which they were performed. While there may be slight variations between teachers, the essence of Classical Pilates remains faithful to its roots.

This method was crafted with meticulous attention to detail, where each exercise flows seamlessly into the next, creating a system that goes beyond physical strength. It’s about connecting the mind and body and enhancing your overall wellbeing.

While the commercialisation and global spread of Pilates have been immense, it’s important to understand the differences between each style. This helps us honour and respect what Joseph Pilates left behind—a method designed to help us grow, heal, and thrive.

People practicing Pilates on reformer machines in a gym with large windows and bright lighting.

Fundamentals of Classical Pilates

Cost: SGD 299 per participant, inclusive of 4 group classes.

Duration: 60-minutes per class.

Capacity: Limited to 5 participants only per session.

OPEN FOR ENROLMENT:


In this 4-week intensive, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the essentials that underpin Classical Pilates, including:

  • Structure of the Reformer: Get to grips with the apparatus that’s central to Pilates practice. Learn the components, their functions, and how they support your movement.

  • Foot Corrector

  • Wunda Chair

  • Magic Circle

  • Standing armwork

  • The Classical Sequence: We’ll guide you through the Basic 10 Reformer exercises and the Basic 7 Mat exercises, which form the foundation of Classical Pilates. Discover why Joseph Pilates arranged them in this specific order and how these sequences build strength, flexibility, and control.

  • Building Confidence: Week by week, we’ll progressively introduce you to these exercises, ensuring you develop the strength, form, and confidence needed to join higher-level classes with ease. By the end, you’ll not only master the movements but also understand the ‘why’ behind the Classical order, setting you up for success in more advanced classes.

Why Classical Pilates?

  • A Full-Body Experience: Engage every part of your body, from your core to your limbs, with carefully structured exercises.

  • A Deeper Understanding: We’ll introduce you to the essential Pre-Pilates exercises that help you prepare for the more advanced movements. By mastering these, you’ll better understand the movements and principles that make Classical Pilates so effective.

  • Feel the Difference: By the end of the programme, you’ll not only understand the structure of the Reformer and the classical sequences, but you’ll also feel the work. You’ll walk away with a heightened awareness of how Classical Pilates transforms both your body and your mind.

Whether you’re new to Pilates or have experience but want to explore its classical roots, this series will give you a comprehensive foundation that will stay with you throughout your Pilates journey.

Why should I learn Classical Pilates?


A man assists a person performing exercises on a Pilates reformer in a sunlit room, with potted plants on the windowsill.

A Full-Body Experience

Classical Pilates engages your entire body, creating strength, flexibility, and balance through a structured sequence of exercises. Each movement works multiple muscle groups, helping you build a well-rounded, functional strength that translates into everyday life.

A person practicing Pilates on exercise equipment helped by an instructor.

A Deeper Understanding

Since you’ll be learning the original method as Joseph Pilates intended, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of its origins and how it has evolved over time—forming the foundation of the Pilates we know today. We’ll introduce you to essential Pre-Pilates exercises that prepare you for more advanced movements. By mastering these basics, you’ll grasp the key principles that make Classical Pilates so effective. You’ll not only learn how to perform the exercises but also understand why they’re done in a specific order. This insight helps you gain better control, enhances body awareness, and sets the stage for more advanced Pilates work.

Vintage photo of a Pilates studio with four people using reformer machines, surrounded by exercise posters and equipment on the walls.

Feel the Difference

Classical Pilates focuses on precise movement and control, making even the smallest adjustments impactful. As you progress, you’ll start to feel the work in new ways—building core strength, improving posture, and experiencing the mind-body connection that is at the heart of Pilates.

A studio fully equipped with Classical apparatuses from the best Pilates manufacturers in the world.

FAQs

Fundamentals of Classical Pilates Intensives Programme

Join us to build a strong foundation in the original Pilates method and gain the confidence and skills to take your practice to the next level.

Intensives Programme’s Terms & Conditions

  1. Please only sign-up for the enrolment cycle if you are able to attend ALL sessions scheduled. Your registration signifies your commitment to these specific dates scheduled. Please note that there will be no refunds, transfers, or exchanges for sessions that are not attended.

  2. Registration for the Intensives Programme is only confirmed upon full payment. You will receive a confirmation email once your payment has been processed.

  3. Once your registration for the Intensives Programme is confirmed, we cannot offer refunds or allow transfers. For cancellations due to health or medical reasons, please provide a medical certificate, and we will review these cases individually.

  4. Please note that videos and photos may be taken during class hours for Altum Pilates’ marketing purposes. If you are uncomfortable with this, please let us know in advance.