Pilates is everywhere. You see it on social media, hear about it from friends and colleagues, and more and more studios are popping up. But what is pilates exactly? And what makes it different from yoga, regular fitness or cardio? At CRUSH Studios in Haarlem, pilates is about one thing: moving with intention. Controlled, powerful and effective for every body.
In this blog we explain where pilates comes from, what it does to your body and which classes CRUSH offers for everyone who wants to start or keep growing.
The Origin and Science of Pilates
Pilates was developed in the early twentieth century by Joseph Pilates, a German athlete who believed in the power of the connection between body and mind. His method, originally called “Contrology”, focused on controlled movements that activate the entire body from a strong centre. That centre is the core: the deep abdominal, back and pelvic floor muscles that hold everything together.
What makes pilates unique compared to other forms of exercise is the emphasis on quality over quantity. One perfect movement is worth more than ten sloppy ones. That precision makes pilates accessible for beginners and challenging for the experienced at the same time. You always work at your own level, with your own body as the starting point.
The benefits of pilates are widely researched and well documented. Regular training improves your posture, strengthens your core, increases flexibility and reduces back pain. Want to know how to build this the right way? Read our blog about why consistency is more important than intensity.
Mat Pilates versus Reformer Pilates
Within pilates there are two major streams: mat pilates and reformer pilates. With mat pilates you use only your bodyweight as resistance, on a yoga mat. Accessible, affordable and possible anywhere. But there is a limit to how far you can progress.
What the Reformer Adds
The reformer is a specialised machine with a sliding carriage, straps and a system of springs that provide resistance. Those springs can be adjusted in weight, making exercises easier or harder depending on your level. This makes the reformer suitable for rehabilitation as well as for the advanced athlete.
The sliding carriage and straps also create instability, and that instability is exactly what makes it so valuable. Your body constantly has to stabilise, which activates the deep muscles you barely reach with regular strength training. Muscles that improve your posture, protect your back and optimise your movement patterns.
Why CRUSH Chooses the Reformer
At CRUSH we work with a custom-designed reformer, specifically tailored to the CRUSH method. Every class is 50 minutes, low-impact but high-intensity, with music, atmospheric lighting and an energy you will not find anywhere else. Whether you are just starting out or have been training for years, the CRUSH reformer class gives you a complete full-body workout that challenges your body without straining your joints.
Who Is Reformer Pilates For?
Reformer pilates is for everyone. For people with back pain or recovering from an injury, the low impact offers protection. For athletes who want to become stronger and more stable, the spring resistance is ideal. And for people who simply want to feel fitter, stronger and more at home in their body, it is one of the most complete workouts available. Browse all CRUSH classes and find out which one suits you best.
The Classes at CRUSH Studios
At CRUSH we offer multiple classes, each with its own focus and energy. Together they form a complete offering for everyone who wants to move in a way that works and that they will stick with.
The High Intensity Reformer is the signature class of CRUSH. In 50 minutes you train your entire body on the reformer with spring-loaded resistance. You activate deep muscles, build strength and improve stability, all in a low-impact format suitable for every fitness level.
For those ready to go further, there is the Advanced High Intensity Reformer. This class is designed for experienced participants who are ready for more resistance, higher intensity and more complex sequences. It is the logical next step after the signature class and a challenge you will want to take on again and again.
Alongside the reformer classes, CRUSH also offers Barre, a dynamic class that combines pilates with elements of strength training and dance. Small movements with big results, focused on sculpting and toning. Want to know which class suits you best? Our blog about reformer pilates versus barre puts the two side by side.
Getting Started at CRUSH
Never done pilates before? No problem. At CRUSH all beginners are welcome and the classes are structured so you can always work at your own level. Want to find out more about who we are and what drives us? Read our story.
Our instructors guide you through every exercise and help you find the right technique. Also read our blog about why low-impact high-intensity training is so effective to feel even more prepared for your first session.
Check the class schedule and book your first class through the CRUSH app. Want to get started without a big commitment? Have a look at our intro packages and discover why so many people in Haarlem have become hooked on CRUSH.
Burn. Shake. Smile. CRUSH.