At L360, we’ve tried and tested every form of Pilates known to man — from mat and chair to reformer and Lagree. But, according to a pro, there’s another form that consistently comes out on top.
When I first tried reformer Pilates, I thought my body was going to break. Despite the elegant look of the sleek machines, it’s very easy to flail like a whale on top of them and learning how to master the manoeuvres takes time.
Fast forward to now, and I consider myself an intermediate Pilates-goer: I feel confident working my way around a reformer, and staying upright and balanced (just about). As a team, we’ve also tried a fair few formats, from hot mat Pilates (this is a tough one) to Lagree and even wall (this is as hard as it sounds).
But something that I hadn’t heard of was dynamic Pilates. That is, until a new studio opened near me claiming to specialise in it.
What is dynamic Pilates?
“It’s a bit of a modern evolution of the classical Pilates method, but slightly more energetic,” explains Natalie Gubbay-Jackson, personal trainer and owner of Override Spin and Override Reformer in Borehamwood.
Natalie says her new studio — which focuses on dynamic Pilates — helps people to build strength and confidence through this energising style of Pilates. According to her, it’s more driven by music rather than traditional methods.
“Dynamic classes often include contemporary fitness elements, such as using hand weights. At Override, our dynamic classes feature full body integration, where multiples muscles will be worked through different formats, while still maintaining a Pilates mind-body connection.”
Read more: Made to Move: Everything you need to know about strength training as a woman
What can I expect from a dynamic Pilates class?
Just like Pilates, dynamic Pilates consists of a series of exercises designed to strengthen and engage your core and help improve your posture and flexibility. The difference between traditional reformer Pilates and dynamic Pilates is the equipment.
“At Override, we integrate not only hand weights into the class, but also weighted balls and a weighted silicone ring,” explains Natalie.
This makes classes more unique and creative, as the use of non-traditional equipment such as dumbbells means that the instructor can implement a ton of different variations.
What makes this exercise form special?
“What makes Pilates stand out is how it works for everyone,” says Natalie. “It’s low impact, so it’s kind to your joints, but can still be seriously effective. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, getting back into movement or are simply looking to build strength and tone in a more mindful way, the reformer meets you where you’re at. You feel that deep core connection, that strength from the inside out, without the strain that can come with other workouts.”
She adds that the classes help to build a real community feeling — which is something that city dwellers in particular are seeking now more than ever.
“You’re surrounded by like-minded people, moving together in a calm, focused way. No judgment, no competition — just everyone working on themselves in their own lane with a shared passion.”
How can people maximise the benefits of Pilates?
According to Natalie, the first question that people should ask themselves is: ‘how much time am I willing to commit to reaching my goals?’
“It’s important to keep your goal realistic. Some people have more time than others, and it’s just about putting an hour aside in your day and making it non-negotiable. The ideal is to be active 150 to 300 minutes per week, but I’d suggest starting by focusing on consistency rather than quantity.”
Feature image: Pexels
