Where does Pilates come from?

Many people ask me about what Pilates actually is, so I thought I’d write a little bit about it for those of you who don’t know the background.

Pilates is a low-impact method of exercise designed to strengthen the whole body, whilst also improving flexibility and correcting postural alignment. Focused on establishing a close connection between body and mind, it’s a holistic approach to well-being.

The ‘Contrology’ method was invented by German-born Mr Joseph Pilates, back in the 1920s. He started to develop his method whilst in England, nursing those injured in WW1 and helping the patients to walk again. Later, he moved to New York, where his reputation for rehabilitation meant that he became popular amongst the dance community. He trained elite ballet dancers recovering from injury and improving technique. It wasn’t after Joseph Pilates died that his method was renamed to Pilates.

There are 34 original Pilates exercises that are still performed today, although keep in mind that Pilates’ was working with dancers who had incredible strength and flexibility, so we often modify these exercises to make them suitable for everyone. That’s the great thing about Pilates today, it is suitable (and very beneficial) for absolutely everyone, whatever your physical ability, you will be challenged by Pilates.

Breathing, Concentration, Centring, Precision, Flow and Control are the 6 fundamental elements to Pilates, that create a balance within every exercise and integrate the body and mind.

If you haven’t already, give Pilates a try, and discover the harmony within your body and mind.