Pilates in Kos: The Varieties, the Benefits, and Why Props Can Be a Game-Changer

Pilates has a bit of a reputation problem.

Some people think it’s only stretching. Others assume it’s too gentle to make a difference. And plenty of us have tried a class years ago and thought, “Not for me.”

But Pilates is wonderfully varied — and when it’s taught well, it can be one of the most effective ways to build strength, improve posture, support your joints, and feel more at home in your body.

This week, I wanted to share a simple guide to the different types of Pilates, what they’re best for, and why I love bringing props into our sessions at Evexia Kos.

The main varieties of Pilates (and what they’re great for)

1) Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is the foundation.

You use your own bodyweight (and gravity!) to build deep strength — especially through your core, glutes, back, and hips.

Mat work is brilliant for:

• building functional strength you can feel in everyday life

• improving posture and alignment

• supporting back health

• increasing body awareness and control

• creating a strong, stable core (without endless crunches)

It’s also incredibly adaptable: we can make it more supportive, more challenging, or more mobility-focused depending on what you need.

2) Reformer Pilates (private sessions)

Reformer Pilates uses a spring-based machine that adds resistance and support.

While we don’t currently offer reformer Pilates as a group class at Evexia Kos, I do teach reformer Pilates privately for clients who have their own equipment.

Reformer work is fantastic for strength and control — and it can be especially helpful if you’re rehabbing an injury, building confidence with movement, or you want more resistance than mat work alone.

Even if you don’t have access to a reformer, you can still get many of the same benefits through smart mat programming and the right props.

3) Contemporary vs Classical Pilates

You might hear these terms and wonder what they mean.

• Classical Pilates follows the original sequence and structure created by Joseph Pilates.

• Contemporary Pilates keeps the principles, but integrates modern movement science, updated cueing, and a bit more flexibility in sequencing.

At Evexia Kos, the priority is always the same: safe, effective movement that meets you where you are — and helps you feel better in your body.

The benefits of Pilates (beyond the obvious)

Yes, Pilates can help you feel toned and strong — but the real magic is how it changes the way you move.

Regular Pilates practice can support:

• Core strength and stability (the kind that protects your back)

• Posture and alignment (less hunching, less tension)

• Mobility and flexibility (without forcing stretches)

• Balance and coordination

• Joint-friendly strength (especially hips, knees, shoulders)

• Breathing and nervous system regulation

• Confidence — because you start trusting your body again

And honestly? Many people notice they sleep better and feel calmer too — because Pilates asks you to slow down, focus, and breathe.

Why I love using props (and why they’re not “cheating”)

Props aren’t there to make Pilates easier.

They’re there to make it smarter.

In our Evexia Kos mat classes, I teach classic mat Pilates — and we also love introducing props, such as:

• resistance bands

• Pilates rings

• small balls

• light hand weights

• yoga blocks

How props help

• They add feedback: a ball or ring gives your body something to “connect” to, which can improve technique.

• They help you find the right muscles: props can switch on glutes, inner thighs, and deep core in a way that clicks fast.

• They add variety: same principles, fresh feel — which keeps you consistent.

• They offer support when needed: blocks and balls can make positions more comfortable and accessible.

• They increase challenge when you’re ready: bands and weights add resistance without needing machines.

So whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve done Pilates for years, props can help you progress safely — and keep your practice interesting.

Join us in Kos: Winter classes + Summer classes

If you’re in Kos (or planning to be), I’d love to welcome you into our Pilates community.

Winter Pilates (local classes)

Winter is the perfect time to build a strong foundation — and to stay consistent when motivation dips.

• supportive, friendly small-group sessions

• mat Pilates with optional props

• suitable for beginners and improvers

Summer Pilates (seasonal classes)

In summer, Beach & Sunset Pilates becomes the most beautiful kind of routine — moving your body, feeling strong, and still having energy for everything else you want to do.

• ideal for visitors spending time on the island

• great alongside walking, swimming, and beach days

• a feel-good way to stay strong while you’re here

Ready to try a class?

If you’d like to join our winter programme or get details for summer classes, just send me a message and tell me:

1. whether you’re in Kos now (winter) or visiting later (summer)

2. your experience level (beginner / some Pilates / regular practice)

3. any injuries or areas you’d like support with

I’ll come back to you with the current timetable and the best class option for you.