Pilates
In the 1920’s, Joseph H. Pilates created this low-impact conditioning program. Influenced by yoga, gymnastics, skiing, self-defense, dance, circus training and weight training he created a perfect blend of strength and flexibility. When you participate in a Pilates session you will easily see all of these reflected in his work. He utilized his new method, Contrology, on his own body with tremendous results. It was after this that he began teaching others. While he was training detectives in Scotland Yard WWI broke out and due to his German heritage he was interned. During this time he worked with fellow internees. A great number of these internees were wounded from the war and had very serious injuries. This is where his knowledge of rehabilitation began its development.

When WWI was over Joe emigrated from Germany to the United States. While on the boat he met his future wife, Clara, a trained nurse. Realizing they shared the same view on fitness they set up their studio in New York. During this time he developed a relationship with Balanchine and worked with many of his dancers. A steady following of actors, actresses, and athletes then ensued.

Joseph Pilates believed in commitment. He felt it crucial that you must be committed to performing the work. It was understood that you must perform these exercises on a regular basis to realize results. This principle is still reinforced today in all physical fitness regimens if you want results. There is no “quick fix”.

The following is taken directly from Joseph H. Pilates & William J. Miller’s book, “A Pilates’ Primer: The Millennium Edition, Return to Life Through Contrology and Your Health”. Incline Village, NV: Presentation Dynamics, 1998. Pg 6. This was originally published in 1945.
 
“The Basic Fundamentals of a Natural Physical Education”
Civilization Impairs Physical Fitness.

Physical Fitness is the first requisite of happiness. Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure. To achieve the highest accomplishments within the scope of our capabilities in all walks of life we must constantly strive to acquire strong, healthy bodies and develop our minds to the limit of our ability. This very rapidly progressing world with its ever-increasing faster tempo of living demands that we be physically fit and alert in order that we may succeed in the unceasing race with keen competition which rewards the “go-getter” but by-passes the “no-getter”.

We have all seen it. Poor posture occurs as a result of  endless hours at a computer, excess time driving in a car,  increased stress and injury. We spend so much time thinking about the future that we neglect the vehicle that will be taking us into that time, our body. Pilates addresses these areas. Within a few sessions you will notice some, if not all, of the following: