Pilates, an exercise system which uses precise movement performed with specialized apparatus, is a relatively modern form of exercise. Developed by Joseph H. Pilates in the 1920s, the approach focuses on strengthening the muscles without creating bulk, while enhancing agility and flexibility. With influences of yoga, Pilates engages both your body and mind through a series of controlled movement performed on equipment such as the Reformer and Cadillac.
The Man Behind the Movement
Born in Germany in 1880, Joseph Pilates began to formulate his exercise philosophy during the first World War, when he was confined to a small space on the Isle of Man. Fueled by his frailty as a child, he dedicated himself to increasing his strength and overall conditioning. His desire to help others led him to become a nurse, which is when he designed his first exercise equipment prototype. To help immobilized patients, Joseph attached springs to hospital beds and developed a series of strengthening exercises, which over the course of his life would expand to over 500 exercises.
Coming to America
Joseph Pilates and his wife Clara, moved to New York and opened up their first exercise studio in 1926. Because of the precise nature of his approach, one-on-one instruction was utilized to ensure proper form and posture when performing the various exercises. During his lifetime, the Pilates method was not well known since it was isolated, due to a single location, personal instruction and specialized equipment needed to perform the exercises. Therefore, only an elite group had been exposed to the Pilates method from 1926 up to his death in 1967.
Pilates Boom
It wasn't until the 1980s that interest in Pilates began to grow and take root in the fitness industry. As Yoga became more popular, Pilates gained more recognition due to the similar focus on the mind and body connection. In the 1990s, marketing helped the Pilates method expand quickly and become a popular technique to sculpt the body. Instructors worldwide sought out certifications and private studios were established from coast to coast.
Pilates Today
Today, Pilates classes encompass a very broad spectrum of styles and techniques, ranging from one-on-one instruction utilizing a variety of tools and equipment, to group Pilates performed solely on a mat. Not only can you find Pilates-based exercise in privately-owned studios, but most gyms and facilities like the YMCA offer both one-on-one and group Pilates instruction. The method has also been made widely accessible with DVDs. Because of the body conditioning techniques and focus on core strength, the Pilates exercise has also become a popular form of exercise in various physical therapy and rehabilitative programs.
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