Why Open Studio Training? Where the Real Magic Happens

At Contrology HQ, we believe Pilates is more than a series of exercises — it’s a path to mastery, independence, and improved health. That’s why our Open Studio format sits at the heart of our teaching.

Open Studio isn’t about following instructions in a class. It’s about working independently — focusing your mind and body as you move. Here, movement becomes more than a skill. It becomes a path to self-mastery.

Each session is an opportunity to refine, deepen awareness, and strengthen the connection between mind and body.

The studio operates within set training hours, giving you flexibility to train when it suits you — much like a gym. Throughout your session, you’re supported and coached by an instructor, yet you take full ownership of your program and your progress. This format supports consistency, autonomy, and long-term progression — the foundations of mastery.

Open Studio is suitable for all levels of fitness and experience.

Why I Chose the Open Studio Format

I fell in love with contemporary Pilates many years ago — it strengthened my body and it was loads of fun! But when I began exploring the classical method, something shifted. This was where I truly felt my body open up and transform in ways I hadn’t experienced before.  I realised there was so much more to learn and I threw myself into it!

I chose to move to the Open Studio format because I believe this is where the real magic of Pilates is experienced. This is Pilates as Joe Pilates intended — a personalised practice of discipline, discovery, and depth and this is what I want to share with you.

There is so much subtlety in this work — lessons that can only be felt and understood through years of repetition and consistent practice, and then continually refined over a lifetime.

Why Train This Way?

So why do it? Why train with this level of focus and precision? Not simply to be “better at Pilates.” The purpose is far greater.

Classical Pilates develops strength and flexibility, yes — but more importantly, it cultivates control of both mind and body. The skills you develop in the studio extend far beyond it — improving performance, posture, and presence in every aspect of life.

As Joseph Pilates said:

“Contrology is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace, and skill that will be unmistakably

reflected in the way you walk, in the way you play, and in the way you work.”

When practiced consistently, Contrology changes how you move, how you think, and how you feel — in a way that only a true mind–body discipline can.

Our Open Studio format gives you the time, space, and structure to practice consistently, refine your technique, and truly internalise the lessons of the classical method — always under expert guidance.

This is how mastery develops. This is how Contrology works.

Contrology HQ — Classical Pilates, performed with purpose.