Why We Teach Pilates This Way
At Everybody Pilates, we teach Classical Pilates as a complete system — not just a workout.
Joseph Pilates designed his method to be practised across multiple pieces of equipment, each supporting, challenging, and informing the body in different ways. When used together, the system builds strength, mobility, coordination, and confidence in a progressive, intelligent way.
Unlike many modern single apparatus studios, our classes follow a clear pathway:
- Structured levels
- Small class sizes
- Skilled teachers who guide your progress
- Accessibility to Mat, Reformer, Tower, Chairs & Barrels, and other Classical apparatus
This approach allows you to move through the system by using the equipment most suited to help you in each exercise— and creates long-term results rather than short-term intensity.
The Classical Pilates System (In Simple Terms)
Pilates is not random. Each level builds on the last.
- You learn the connections in the body in each exercise and how to move well first
- Then you add strength, coordination, and challenge
- Over time, and with continual practice the exercises flow together into a full, balanced system
Progression is not about doing harder exercises quickly — it’s about:
- Control
- Consistency
- Confidence
- Quality of movement
That’s why we have levels, types, and teacher guidance so you can learn the entire Classical method.
Your Class Pathway - Our Recommended Progression
1️⃣ Fundamentals
Your foundation
Who it’s for:
- Brand new to Pilates
- Returning after injury or a long break
- Anyone wanting to reset their movement basics
What you’ll learn:
- Fundamental connections in the body, proper alignment, body awarness
- Breathing and control
- Introductory Mat, Reformer, and Tower exercises
- How the equipment supports your body
How long to stay:
- Around 6 weeks
- Ideally 2 classes per week
Focus:
Learning how to move before adding challenge.
2️⃣ Beginner
Building confidence
Who it’s for:
- Clients who understand the fundamentals
- Those ready to move with more flow and coordination
What you’ll learn:
- Expanded beginner repertoire
- Stronger transitions
- Increased strength and body awareness
- Greater confidence using different equipment
How long to stay:
- Around 6 weeks
- Ideally 2 classes per week
Focus:
Developing control, consistency, and confidence.
3️⃣ Intermediate 1
Strength + challenge
Who it’s for:
- Clients with a solid beginner foundation
- Those ready for increased physical demand
What you’ll learn:
- Introductory intermediate exercises
- More complex coordination
- Stronger use of springs and body weight
- Deeper understanding of the system
How long to stay:
- Around 6 weeks
- Ideally 2 classes per week
Focus:
Building resilience and strength without losing control.
4️⃣ Intermediate 2
The heart of the practice
Who it’s for:
- Confident, consistent practitioners
What you’ll learn:
- The full intermediate repertoire
- Greater precision and flow
- Stronger transitions between exercises
- How different equipment supports different bodies
How long to stay:
- Most clients stay here
- Anywhere from 2–5 years
Focus:
Refinement, longevity, and mastery of movement.
5️⃣ Advanced
For experienced movers
Who it’s for:
- Clients who know the full system
- Those with strong control, confidence, and consistency
What you’ll learn:
- Advanced exercises across Mat and equipment
- Increased speed, strength, and stamina
- Highly refined movement patterns
Focus:
Precision, challenge, and full-body integration.
How Do You Know When to Progress?
You don’t need to decide alone.
Your teacher will guide you based on:
- Consistency in class
- Quality of movement
- Control and confidence
- Readiness for the next repertoire
We’ll also send gentle reminders and recommendations when it’s time to move up.
Class Types Explained
Equipment Classes (Reformer & Tower)
What they are:
Spring-based classes using Classical equipment to support, challenge, and strengthen the body.
Why they matter:
- Springs provide feedback and assistance
- Help build strength safely
- Improve control and coordination
Best for:
All levels — the equipment adapts to you.
Mat Classes
What they are:
Pilates using your own body weight, following the original Mat sequence.
Why they matter:
- Builds deep strength and control
- Teaches independence and precision
- Essential to the Classical system
Best paired with:
Equipment classes — Mat becomes stronger when supported by the apparatus.
1:1 & Duet Sessions
What they are:
Fully personalised sessions using the full Classical studio.
Why choose them:
- Injury support or specific goals
- Faster progression
- Deeper understanding of your body
Often recommended:
Alongside group classes for best results.
Experience Equipment, Mat and a 1-to-1 session with the Pilates Intro Series.
Why We Encourage Using All the Equipment
Each piece of equipment teaches your body something different:
- The Reformer builds strength and symmetry
- The Tower supports mobility and control
- The Mat challenges integration and independence
Together, they help you:
- Move better
- Feel stronger
- Stay injury-resilient
- Progress safely over time
This is the heart of Classical Pilates.
Experience the full Classical Pilates system.
Our monthly memberships combine Mat and Equipment classes at a discounted rate compared to pay-as-you-go.
Email us to explore membership options and find the right fit for you.
A Final Note on Progress
Pilates is not a race.
Progress looks like:
- Better movement
- More confidence
- Less pain
- Greater ease in your body
Our job is to guide you — step by step — through a practice that supports you for years, not weeks.
If you ever feel unsure about where you are in the pathway, just ask. We’re here to help.
