The History of Pilates

German born Joseph Pilates was essentially an inventor and explorer (of ideas, rather than places). He was very interested in physical culture and strongly believed in the co-ordination of mind,
body and spirit.  

He spent his life devising apparatus and exercises to achieve that end, and passing on his ideas
to others. He opened his studio in New York after emigrating to the US in the 1920's and continued to design equipment and develop his ideas until his death in 1967. Many of his inventions look bizarre, but most of the apparatus that he designed for exercise is in use today in Pilates studios around the world.

Pilates in the 21st century is an exercise method taught either as matwork or studio classes, privately or in groups. The media has drawn attention to it as a popular form of exercise amongst celebrities, and also as a treatment for back pain. Pilates is now recommended by many GPs, osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists for help in overcoming a variety of injuries and postural problems. In addition, the list of professional sports professionals who use Pilates to help
prevent injury grows ever longer.

The Pilates exercise program is based around a few basic principles:

  • Breathing
  • Centre
  • Control
  • Precision
  • Co-ordination.

As classes become more advanced the exercises will flow from one to another.

The emphasis of the exercises is to work on the deep stabilising muscles of the trunk and to
create long, lean muscles. The deeper muscles stabilise us and help us to stand up tall,
giving proper support to the spine and encouraging good joint mobility. Pilates exercises also promote physical awareness which is a prerequisite to making postural improvements and
moving more freely.

Joseph Pilates himself has been often quoted as saying something to the effect of: "in 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 sessions you will
have a new body". This may not be true for everyone but it is remarkable how often people notice Pilates making a difference to how they feel in a very few sessions.