What Is Contrology?
The Original Name for the Pilates Method
Before the word “Pilates” became associated with fitness classes, reformer workouts, and boutique studios, Joseph Pilates called his method Contrology.
He described Contrology as:
“The complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.”
At Lift Pilates, we use the term Contrology to reflect our commitment to the original classical Pilates system: a structured, progressive method designed to build strength, coordination, control, and resilience over time.
Why Was It Called Contrology?
Joseph Pilates believed movement should be intentional, connected, and practiced with concentration.
The name Contrology emphasized:
Control over movement rather than momentum
Precision and coordination
Whole-body integration
Rhythm and tempo
Consistent practice over random exercise
The method was designed as a complete system — not just a collection of exercises.
What Makes Contrology Different?
Today, many classes use the word “Pilates” broadly. Contrology refers more specifically to the original system and principles developed by Joseph Pilates.
At Lift Pilates, this means:
Structured Progression
Exercises build on one another over time. Clients do not simply repeat random workouts each week.
Individualized Programs
Each client follows a personalized program based on their body, experience, and goals.
Teacher-Led Guidance
Clients receive real-time coaching and corrections throughout their practice.
The Full System
Classical Pilates includes mat work and apparatus work together — reformer, Cadillac, chairs, barrels, and more — all designed to support the development of the body as a whole.
Rhythm and Tempo
Contrology is athletic and dynamic. Exercises are practiced with rhythm, tempo, and connection rather than isolated repetition.
Contrology at Lift Pilates
Lift Pilates is a classical Pilates studio in Davis, California, rooted in the original Contrology system.
Laura Shearer has been teaching Pilates for more than 20 years and has studied extensively in the classical tradition, including graduate-level training with Jay Grimes, a direct student of Joseph Pilates.
Lift Pilates follows a structured small-group model where clients work through individualized programs with teacher guidance in every session.
This is not a drop-in workout or a one-size-fits-all class structure.
It is a disciplined, progressive practice designed to help clients:
Get stronger
Move better
Improve coordination
Build consistency
Support long-term health and mobility
Is Contrology Good for Beginners?
Yes.
You do not need prior Pilates experience to begin at Lift Pilates.
Most clients start with a private introductory session where they learn foundational movements, equipment setup, and how the system works. From there, clients progress into structured small-group sessions at their own pace.
The goal is not perfection on day one.
The goal is consistent progress over time.
Begin Your Practice
If you are looking for a more structured, personalized approach to Pilates rooted in the original classical method, Lift Pilates may be the right fit.
Start with your first private session and learn how the Contrology system works for your body.
Introductory Offer for New Clients