History

It is a holistic approach to living life better as spearheaded by Joseph and Clara Pilates, and personally delivered to many students (some would even describe themselves as disciples as the effects were tremendous). There are five elders left, that have received direct instruction from Joseph Pilates.

The Pilates method that most people know about is a system of strengthening and stretching exercises developed near the turn of the 20th century by a German carpenter and gymnast, Joseph Pilates. He first started developing his method of exercise to strengthen his asthma and rickets plagued body. Then during the First World War he taught his method to nonambulatory patients in a hospital where he worked as an orderly. It is there that he created his first apparatus, which was to later become the Reformer. His new method helped these patients improve faster, and eventually regain their mobility.

Joseph Pilates immigrated to the United States in 1926 and established his first official Pilates Studio in New York City with his wife, Clara. In 1945 he wrote a book titled Return to Life which detailed his method of exercise.

What is it?
The Pilates philosophy focuses on training both the mind and body to work in concert to achieve your overall fitness goals. The system focuses much more on strengthening and toning muscles as opposed to making them bulky, thus it is a favorite among many dancers. The exercises help to build coordination and balance in addition to strength and flexibility. Pilates also trains you to use your mind to control your muscles better. Joseph Pilates originally called his method of exercise Contrology because so much of the emphasis is on using the power of the mind to control the body. Come down to the studio and find out more for yourself how this powerful method of training can help you be healthier too.

Who should try it?
The Pilates Method is great for people of all ages and fitness levels. Because the exercises do not stress the joints, it works well for people with arthritis or other joint problems that have trouble with many traditional workouts. Pilates is often recommended for patients with back problems because of its emphasis on strengthening both the abdominal and back muscles.