FINDING YOUR CORE
A Fresh Introduction for Newcomers
& Returners to Pilates
In a wellness world bursting with trends, Pilates remains timeless. Equal parts elegant and intentional, it’s the kind of movement practice that meets you exactly where you are—whether you’re brand new, easing back in after a hiatus, or simply craving something more mindful than your standard fitness routine. Today’s Pilates blends classical foundations with modern technique, making it more approachable, more sculpting, and more restorative than ever. If you’ve been curious about starting—or restarting—Pilates, consider this your invitation.
Pilates Then & Now
Pilates traces its origins to the early 20th century through the work of Joseph Pilates, a German-born innovator who believed that true health came from uniting the mind and body through intentional movement. Originally called “Contrology,” his method was developed during World War I, where he used breathwork, precise muscle engagement, and rehabilitative exercises to help improve strength and mobility in injured soldiers.
After immigrating to New York in the 1920s, Joseph and his wife Clara opened their iconic studio near the dance community, where dancers and athletes embraced the method for its ability to build deep core strength, refine alignment, and prevent injury. Over time, the practice evolved beyond its rehabilitative roots into the dynamic and mindful movement system we know today—one that continues to honor Joseph’s foundational principles of control, concentration, and purposeful breath.
The Essence of Pilates
At its core, Pilates is the art of controlled movement. Rather than chasing exhaustion or speed, Pilates focuses on alignment, breath, balance, and deep strength. The result? A body that moves with intention and a mind that feels more centered. Sessions are designed to leave you both energized and grounded—elongated through the spine, rooted through the core, and more aware of how your body carries you through everyday life.
Intention and presence fundamentally guide Pilates’ core practice, believes Stephanie Lacefield, owner of CORE. Pilates studio in Clovis, California.“Our classes are unique to the individual clients in real time,” she explains while acknowledging that even with group classes, teachers must recognize that everyone has individual needs. “We realize the importance to meet each client where they are. Challenging them and encouraging them along the way while keeping the foundation of Joseph Pilates method present in each class.”
Pilates’ Modern Renaissance
Pilates has found its place again—this time not as a trend, but as a lifestyle. It has become the go-to movement for those seeking longevity and mindful strength.
Low-Impact, High-Yield
It’s perfect for beginners and “it’s-been-awhile” returners. The low-impact nature of Pilates makes it accessible for those rebuilding strength, recovering from inactivity, or simply seeking a gentler reentry into movement.
Universally Flattering
The functional, flattering results make it ideal for most every body type. Because Pilates trains the deep stabilizing muscles, you’re not just getting stronger—you’re moving better, standing taller, and carrying yourself with more ease.
Focused on Quiet Focus
This is a fitness routine that embraces the luxury of quiet focus. Unlike high-intensity workouts, Pilates invites presence. It’s a rare wellness moment that feels both indulgent and restorative.
Many people arrive to Pilates as beginners or return after years away. When it comes to people reconnecting with their bodies, “We want them to allow themselves to be beginners,” Stephanie encourages. “We offer a layering approach, which allows all clients at all levels to focus on their strengths not their weaknesses, allowing faster progression.
What Today’s Pilates Looks Like
While the classical method remains the foundation, modern studios have elevated the practice with contemporary elements that enhance—not overshadow—the original work.
Layered, Intuitive Instruction
Classes now often include “layers,” offering variations so every student—from brand-new to seasoned—can work at their level with confidence.
Thoughtful Fusion Formats
Expect sculpting sequences enhanced by props such as light weights, resistance bands, or balance tools. These additions reflect today’s desire for strength, endurance, and full-body engagement.
Mobility & Stretch Integration
You’ll see more emphasis on opening the body, improving range of motion, and supporting long-term joint health.
The Rise of Heated Movement Spaces
Some studios incorporate gentle infrared heat to deepen flexibility and elevate the experience into something spa-like and indulgent.
Core & Breath as the Anchors
No matter how modern the class becomes, the essence remains: purposeful breath and a deeply engaged center.
“We connect clients to their bodies, mind and body,” Stephanie explains. “The foundation and principles of Pilates are present throughout our entire class and is the most important at CORE. We work the body from the inside out. Modern day or contemporary Pilates should still represent control, concentration, centering, precision, breath, and flow. It should not just be about aesthetics and trends—it is mindful movement.”
Returning—or Beginning—with Confidence
Whether your last Pilates class was last week or last decade, the re-entry is simple and elegant, inviting you to return at your own pace with a sense of ease, grace, and renewed curiosity.
Choose Foundational Classes First
Introductory or Level 1 offerings are designed to refine alignment, breathwork, and functional movement—the pillars that elevate every future class.
Remember, Slow is Powerful
Pilates rewards those who approach it with patience. A controlled, well-aligned movement does more for your body than rushing through advanced exercises.
Communicate Freely
Let your instructor know if you’re returning after a break or managing limitations. Today’s teachers are trained to modify intuitively and supportively.
Consistency Unlocks Transformation
Two or three sessions a week create noticeable improvements in posture, core strength, mobility, and mental clarity.
Let Curiosity Guide You
Each session is an opportunity to rediscover your body’s intelligence and potential.
Pilates is often described as a practice that evolves with you. Hence, it is vital to honor the changes, seasons, and stages each body moves through. Stephanie encourages students “To listen. To be intentional. To be consistent. Throughout every season, our bodies have strength. The level of that strength may vary season to season but if you are intentional and consistent it makes it easier to stay committed. You have one body; you should direct your energy towards nourishing it both inside and out.”
What You’ll Experience in Your First Class
A good Pilates class feels luxurious in its intention. You’ll move with control, connect breath to motion, and engage deep muscles that often go silent in daily life. Expect a sense of refreshing alignment and an energized calm that lingers long after class ends. Pilates offers an approachable elegance—an invitation to feel both strong and centered, sculpted yet balanced. It’s a practice that lives with you beyond the studio.
“Don’t wait for the right time, just get started,” urges Stephanie. “We all start somewhere. Pilates is an incredible way to support you wherever you are in life, no experience necessary. There is space for everyone. With the right educated teacher, the session should be more than just a fitness class. It is life-giving, energizing, inspiring, engaging, and encouraging. Clients always say, ‘I wish I started sooner.’”
Pilates isn’t just a workout—it’s a return to yourself. “Pilates is truly magical how it can come alongside you and support you wherever you are,” Stephanie assures. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or easing back after time away, each breath, each controlled movement, and each moment of mindful alignment brings you a little closer to finding your core—both physically and in the deeper, figurative sense. Consider this your invitation to rediscover strength, curiosity, and confidence from the inside out. After all, your core has been there all along—it’s just waiting for you to find it again.
Health & Fitness Contributor Audrey Barrington
Photographer Danielle Lacey
