Contrology vs. Fitness Reformer: Finding Balance in a Changing Industry
We first discovered Contrology through Joseph Pilates on platforms like Pilates Anytime® years ago. It sparked a passion that’s stayed with us. But when we’re advising gyms, hotels, and boutique studios on new projects, we’re often torn. Do we prioritise traditional methodology, or adapt to what today’s consumers actually want?
In September, we attended the launch of Les Mills UK. It’s undeniably mainstream now. And while we’re thrilled more people are being inspired to move, we can’t help but wonder. Are we losing some of the depth that makes Contrology so special?
The truth is, the train has left the station. The market is exploding, and now we have two distinct worlds: classical Pilates and fitness reformer. The good news? They’re not the same thing. That’s okay. Both have value, and both can thrive. But education is the key to making sure they coexist.
Interviews and Industry Shifts: What Do We Really Need?
Recently, we were conducting back-to-back teacher interviews in London for a new fitness reformer studio. Glancing at the list of qualifications STOTT PILATES®, THE FITNESS GROUP EDUCATION, Health & Fitness Education, Body Control Pilates, Group Future Fit Training Ltd, we can’t help but ask. Will Les Mills Reformer appear on applications soon?
Probably. Especially when placing instructors in commercial spaces like David Lloyd.
For years, we’ve started every interview with the same core questions:
Do they understand the methodology?
Do they grasp the sequence and the why behind each movement?
Do they meet people where they are?
We’re looking for hands-on instructors who can help clients feel the movement in their own bodies. People first. Movement rooted in purpose and anatomy. But lately, we’ve been asking ourselves a harder question. Are we here to educate studios on what Pilates is or are we here to build commercially viable teams that deliver what the market demands? Can we inspire people while keeping them safe on a reformer?
Can Both Worlds Coexist?
We’ll always have a soft spot for Pilates and what it represents. But we also see the value in fitness reformer. The real question isn’t which one is better. It’s how we make room for both.
We chatted with younger guests at the Les Mills event. When we asked if they knew who Joseph Pilates was, most didn’t. Their first experience with reformers? Fitness reformer. So, do people want the workout, or do they want the education? Some call this moment the Wild West of Pilates. But when a category becomes this mainstream, variations like fitness reformer are inevitable. What matters now is championing safe, effective workouts that make people feel great regardless of the label. We need to ensure classical Pilates doesn’t get overshadowed. Because it’s here to stay.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
What do you think about the rise of fitness reformer? Can it coexist with traditional Pilates? Share your thoughts in the comments or get in touch with us via Instagram. We’d love to hear from you!
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