5 Myths About Romana’s Pilates—And the Truth That Sets It Apart
Senior Master RPI Instructor, Roxanne Richards Huang at Lifespan
Clearing Up the Confusion About Romana’s Pilates
Romana’s Pilates International™ (RPI) is rooted directly in the teachings of Joseph Pilates and preserved by Romana Kryzanowska. Yet, as Pilates has become popular worldwide, myths and misunderstandings have multiplied. At LifeSpan Pilates—the only Romana’s Pilates certification center in New York City—we take pride in clarifying truth from trend.
Here are the five most common myths we hear—and the truths that set Romana’s Pilates apart.
Myth #1 — “Pilates is just stretching.”
Truth: Pilates is a full-body conditioning system. Every exercise engages the powerhouse (core, hips, spine), integrating strength, flexibility, balance, and breath. It builds stamina and grace, not just limber muscles.
Try a Reformer class and feel the difference beyond stretching.
Myth #2 — “Romana’s Pilates is the same as any Pilates class.”
Truth: Romana’s Pilates preserves the original method exactly as Joseph Pilates taught it, passed down through the lens of Romana Kryzanowska. Unlike hybrid or fitness-style Pilates, the sequence, apparatus, and teaching style are rooted in lineage—not trends.
Myth #3 — “You need to be fit or flexible to start.”
Truth: Pilates was created for every body. At LifeSpan, we tailor each exercise to your ability. Whether you’re an athlete, recovering from injury, or a beginner, the system meets you where you are.
Book your intro session and discover how adaptable Romana’s Pilates truly is.
Myth #4 — “It’s only for women.”
Truth: Joseph Pilates developed Contrology™ for men and women alike—his early students included boxers, dancers, and soldiers. Today, Romana’s Pilates continues to serve everyone who seeks strength, discipline, and longevity.
Myth #5 — “It’s just a workout.”
Truth: Romana’s Pilates is more than exercise—it’s a philosophy of movement. With six guiding principles (concentration, control, centering, breathing, precision, and flow/rhythm), it reshapes how you live in your body, not just how you train.
Learn the 6 principles of Pilates in our educational series.
Why the Truth Matters
Clearing up these myths helps clients and students understand why Romana’s Pilates is distinct—and why authenticity matters. At LifeSpan, you’re not just attending a class; you’re entering a lineage that honors Joseph Pilates’ original vision.