Joseph Pilates

Joseph and Clara Pilates began their revolutionary work in the early 1920's in New York City. Pioneering physical and movement therapy, they called their new fitness modality "Body Contrology," a term which to them implied articulate and fluid physical control. Body Contrology - now known simply as Pilates - is a complete physical conditioning program, incorporating strength, flexibility, coordination, balance and endurance training. The dual emphasis on movement awareness and efficient body mechanics is key to improving posture, alignment and overall body balance. The integrated focus on both extrinsic and intrinsic (core) muscle groups addresses the body as a whole.

In place of exhaustive, tediously repetitious exercises, Pilates involves refined, purposeful movements requiring concentration and physical awareness. The form is elegant, graceful and balanced. The goal: proper body alignment; lengthened, well-toned muscles; flexible joints and increased physical strength, stamina and mental clarity. Once the core/intrinsic musculature is strong and the spine is properly aligned, Pilates becomes almost artfully balletic… a kind of movement performance.

Practiced in the early days by elite dancers and a select few professional athletes, Pilates is now in the fitness mainstream and is considered one of the most versatile and effective overall physical conditioning methods in existence. An estimated 7 million people worldwide now actively participate in a Pilates-based fitness regimen. Clearly, the revolution envisioned by Joseph Pilates nearly a century ago has become a reality.

To discover more about Jospeh Pilates, please visit https://www.pilatesmethodalliance.org/