Pilates Levels: When am I ready for Level 2 classes?

At any fitness level, Pilates is an effective and safe way to increase your flexibility, develop your core, and release tension. The exercises are designed to layer and build on each other as the student learns the foundational principles. Pilates is suitable for all bodies at any stage of life. At MOVE, we have different levels of Pilates classes to help our clients move confidently and comfortably through their personal fitness journey. Read on to learn more about how we created our Pilates levels and how you know when you’re ready to level up!

What are Pilates levels?

Pilates levels are designed to lend structure to the repertoire of exercises to ensure that you are learning the essential principles before moving to more challenging exercises. 

The Pilates Method Alliance and STOTT Pilates organize the Pilates exercises into three categories:

• Beginner
• Intermediate
• Advanced

At MOVE, we’ve organized our small-group training classes into six levels:

• Gentle
• Intro
• Level 1
• Level 2
• Level 3
• Advanced

We also have private sessions available for students to strengthen their muscles by getting a Pilates workout from an instructor teaching them movement, motion, and control and other Pilates exercises.

Is there different Pilates equipment for each level?

Pilates exercise is done mainly by bodyweight, so all you’ll really need is a yoga mat. Some Pilates classes add light weights or resistance bands to stretch, increasing range and improve control.

Am I ready to take it to the next level?

As you progress on your Pilates journey, you may come to a point where you are wondering if you are ready to move up to the next level. At MOVE, our Level 2 Pilates Classes are designed to be a comfortable transition between Level 1 (beginner) and Level 3 (intermediate). In Level 2, clients will continue to practice the full beginner repertoire of exercises while intermediate principles and exercises are layered into the workout. This includes more weight bearing on arms, more complex movements, and larger ranges of motion with stability and balance challenges.

What do Pilates trainers think?

From a trainer’s perspective, a client is ready to enroll in Level 2 classes when they have achieved competence with the beginner level exercises and can do most of them fairly easily, with good form, and without a lot of explanation. The trainer in a Level 2 class will divide class time between letting students move smoothly through the material while introducing new concepts and exercises from the intermediate repertoire. Intermediate exercises generally require more strength and coordination. Level 2 is a way to start learning the increasingly challenging material before it becomes the focus of the entire class in Level 3.

So how do I know for sure?

You know your body best. A Level 1 class provides a well-rounded workout. For some clients, continuing the essential work in Level 1 may be a great fit on an ongoing basis. Students interested in advancing should feel comfortable with a Level 1 class and might in fact start feeling like they want more of a challenge. Any doubts or questions? Ask you instructor. MOVE trainers are always happy to provide their feedback and suggestions.

We love to see our clients mastering new exercises, and at MOVE there is truly a level to suit all bodies and fitness goals.  We’re here to support your personal journey.