Pilates, Yoga Kriyā & the Question of Movement

Do We Need Pilates at LoveYour.Studio?

This is a question we’re asked with increasing frequency — and it’s a good one.

Pilates is popular, effective, and widely respected. It builds strength, improves posture, and supports rehabilitation. So yes — we absolutely welcome Pilates teachers into LoveYour.Studio, and our spaces are available to rent for Pilates classes and courses.

But here’s the honest part.

We don’t need Pilates in order to offer intelligent, effective, movement-based practice.

And of course I would say that — wouldn’t I?

pilates now on what looks like a torture bed! Do we really need more props?!

A Brief (and Friendly) Historical Note

Joseph Pilates developed his method in the early 20th century, drawing inspiration from gymnastics, martial arts, rehabilitation practices… and yoga. Much of what Pilates formalised and patented in the 1920s already existed — unpatented — within older movement traditions.

Yoga never needed machines to move the body.It didn’t rely on pulsing repetitions or external apparatus to “do the work for you.”

Instead, it developed coordinated, breath-led movement, using body weight, gravity, attention, and restraint.

Different language. Different era.But a shared concern: how do we move well, for life?

What We Offer Instead (and Why It Matters)

At LoveYour.Studio, our answer to modern movement needs is Yoga Kriyā.

Historically speaking, this is the original yoga — movement-based, breath-led, and far less obsessed with posture perfection than some modern interpretations. Early yoga was about coordinated action, adaptability, and intelligence in motion.

Kriyā simply means intentional action. Not random movement. Not mindless repetition. Action with awareness.

Our Yoga Kriyā classes sit at levels 4 and 5 on our 1–9 difficulty scale — offering a progressive, intelligent alternative to both static yoga and machine-based exercise.

And if what you love is posture precision and challenge? Then we invite you to explore our 7. Yoga Āsana – Posture Mastery class.

Perfect shapes, sustained holds, refined alignment — take the challenge.

Yoga Kriyā I – Mindful Movement (Level 4)

Overview

4. Yoga Kriyā I is a beginner-friendly, accessible flow practice designed to introduce mindful movement in a supportive, grounded way. It builds strength, flexibility, and coordination without strain, competition, or excess intensity.

Each session emphasises the relationship between breath and movement, helping practitioners develop body awareness, balance, and confidence.

What to Expect

• Gentle, flowing movements with clear, detailed guidance

• Foundational postures, breathwork, and mindful transitions

• Modifications and variations offered throughout

• A steady, inviting pace that builds strength without overload

Who It’s For

• Beginners or those returning after a break

• Experienced practitioners seeking a gentler, mindful flow

• Anyone wanting sustainable strength, stability, and coordination

Requirements

• No prior yoga experience required

• Openness to exploring movement, breath, and awareness

Yoga Kriyā II – Flow in Action (Level 5)

Overview

5. Yoga Kriyā II develops the practice further through continuous, breath-led sequences that enhance balance, coordination, and fluidity. It bridges foundational yoga and more dynamic styles, preparing practitioners for Yoga Vīrya classes.

This is where movement becomes rhythmic and confidence grows — without abandoning awareness.

What to Expect

• Continuous, breath-synchronised sequences

• Increased focus on coordination, balance, and control

• Moderate challenge that builds readiness for dynamic flows

Who It’s For

• Practitioners seeking to refine flow and body awareness

• Those preparing for more dynamic or strength-based yoga styles

Requirements

• Open to all levels

• Familiarity with basic postures can help, but skills are developed within the class

• Willingness to explore movement with attention rather than force

So… Pilates or Yoga Kriyā?

Pilates is excellent.

But Yoga Kriyā offers something subtly different — and, we would argue, more complete:

• Movement without unnecessary machines (!)

• Strength without rigidity

• Coordination without repetition fatigue

• Flexibility without forcing

• Breath as a guide, not an afterthought

No pulsing. No external apparatus to replace inner intelligence.

Just movement, attention, and progression — quietly building bodies that work.

Our Position (With a Smile)

Yes — we welcome Pilates teachers.

Yes — Pilates has its place.

Yes — we hear you when you say we should have Pilates just because is a trend.

But if you’re looking for:

• coordination

• balance

• functional strength

• mobility

• and a practice that supports you long-term

You may already have everything you need.

Yoga Kriyā isn’t trying to compete.It’s simply doing what yoga has always done — refining movement through awareness.

And of course… I would say that.

But try the class.Then decide.

That’s the yogic way.