Did you know that there are 6 Principles of Pilates? Did you know that one of them is Flow? That is precisely why I highly encourage you to own/workout on Classical Equipment. Let’s talk specifically about the Reformer.Â
Joseph Pilates thought everything out…thoroughly. He was intentional in every aspect of his Method. Classical Pilates relies on his precise dimensions, using straps, a footbar that doesn’t lock and various other details to help us transition fluidly from one exercise to the next, which helps us Flow. Many of us may know that Flow is a Principle. However; many of us think of it only within the confines of the exercise. In fact, just like all our work in Pilates, we look to go deeper.Â
Once a certain level of practice is reached, we use transitions as part of the workout. Striving to reach a level where there is no starting and stopping, but rather our entire workout is one fluid piece of choreography.Â
Our footbar doesn’t lock so we are able to flow immediately from Footwork to The Hundred. We don’t look, we feel, as we pull in our Powerhouse to lift our leg to put the footbar down. That very first transition helps prepare our bodies for what is about to be required during The Hundred. We use straps and the handles stay attached so that we are able to seamlessly transition from Short Spine Massage into Coordination.Â
There are numerous other moments where the Classical apparatus is essential to aiding us in elevating our work. Today I simply chose to talk about transitions and flow. I like to think of it like this: We are dancing and the apparatus is our partner.
Carrie Russo
Creator of The Classical Pilates Lab
Carrie earned her certification from Romana’s Pilates in 2005, one of the most prestigious Classical Pilates certifications in the world. A lifelong student, she continues to learn from respected elders, including Michael Levy, Trish Garland, Cynthia Shipley, and Cynthia Lochard. Carrie was fortunate to study with Romana Kryzanowska herself and still takes weekly classes via Zoom with Romana’s daughter, Sari Mejia Santo. Learn more at Russo Pilates.
