Generally speaking, classical Pilates closely follows the precise movements and sequence of exercises created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. By contrast, contemporary Pilates offers a greater variety of movements, uses additional equipment, and incorporates some more modern physio-type exercises. 

Pilates has been extremely popular for decades because its low-impact workouts tone bodies, improve balance, aid weight loss, build core strength, relieve back pain and help prevent future injuries. The latest trend, however, is to take Pilates to the next level by using equipment such as balls, rollers, springs and suspension straps and incorporating movements that physios use to help people recover from injuries and mitigate chronic conditions. The idea is that by supplementing the classical exercises, you work out more efficiently and effectively and tap into more muscles. Combining an array of equipment with modern exercises provides a more complete and interesting full-body workout. 

Contemporary Pilates has become extremely popular because many people, after benefiting from classical Pilates workouts, seek to build even stronger, healthier and more toned physiques. Also, the extra equipment and greater variety of exercises make contemporary Pilates more interesting and approachable than its classical counterpart. In the 99 years since Joseph Pilates opened his first studio, we have learned much about exercise and how best to improve our health; contemporary Pilates is the result. 

At Suna Pilates we are thrilled to see the world embrace a more modern form of Pilates, since that is what we’ve been teaching for over 25 years (although we didn’t know the term 'contemporary Pilates', and instead called our workouts 'equipment-based Pilates'). Long before it was trendy, we used fitness towers with springs, suspension straps and roll-down bars, as well as foam rollers, weighted balls, Pilates balls and Swiss balls in our mat workouts. These different equipment options allow for an enormous variety of movements that target all the muscle groups. At Suna, we will never bore you by offering the same old workout. We make it easier for members to stay engaged and motivated by keeping things fresh. 

Because many physios refer their clients to Suna, we have integrated physio-type exercises into our class repertoire. We also offer one-on-one training sessions during which we tailor the workout to the individual needs of the client, unconstrained by the rubric of classical Pilates. 

Find out how invigorating a contemporary Pilates workout can be by becoming a member of Suna Pilates. Because we have over 100 classes and personal training sessions each week, it’s easy to fit Suna into your schedule. Get started with an intro pack of six classes for just $60. 

Suna Pilates
1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna
09 489 1987
info@sunapilates.co.nz
sunapilates.co.nz