Consider this all-too-common complaint about Pilates being overly complicated. Criticisms can take the form of:

“There’s too much to think about.” 

“Too many things to remember.”

“I’m overwhelmed.” 

“I never know what I’m supposed to focus on.”

“Every teacher tells me something different.”

“I don’t know where to start.”

Well, I have good news: The Pilates method is not incoherent and overly complex. It is quite simple, actually. The problem—and the reason for negative, fear-response reactions—stems from modern delivery. If your Pilates experience feels like an existential threat, you are doing it wrong. So, let’s fix that.

A reputable fitness podcast I (no longer) subscribe to, recently ran a one-hour feature on the role of Pilates and strength. Sadly, the show only managed to contribute yet more mischaracterization about the Pilates method.

I saw a recent social media post claiming there is no such thing as corrective exercise. The argument states that calling something “corrective” implies a person is broken or that there’s a “right” and “wrong” way to move, and thusly, that this binary framing is harmful or outdated.

Now, I don’t typically put much stock into what I read online and more specifically, social media, but this one stuck with me, maybe because I’ve referred to the Pilates method as corrective for years. Or, maybe because it’s another example of a false argument built on a partial definition. I call bullshit.

Tendon stretch is an often-overlooked exercise because it doesn’t visually capture much to the untrained eye. But something you will undoubtedly come to learn about Pilates is that looks can be deceiving.

Ready for an invigorating Pilates mat workout? It starts with The Hundred.

The original 34 mat exercises are the foundation upon which the entire Pilates system was built. This month-long movement seeks to educate the public about the power of this crucial original work.

Exercise fads will come and go, but Pilates is here to stay. Those who regularly practice the Pilates method know it’s as essential as the air we breathe.

The current state of economic uncertainty and social isolation can have a serious effect on mental health. Here’s how you can use physical fitness, and particularly, Pilates to keep up your spirits during this challenging pandemic time.