Pilates is a form of exercise incorporating breathing and relaxation techniques to form a fitness routine that enhances flexibility and core muscle strength. Although popular in recent years worldwide, Pilates, named for its creator, has existed and continued to develop since the 1900s. Joseph Pilates combined knowledge with art to create this method of physical fitness.
Childhood
Joseph H. Pilates was born in Germany in 1880. As a child, he experienced a lot of illness. He learned to incorporate his training in gymnastics into a fitness routine to keep his body strong to counteract his bouts of sickness. As a young man, Pilates enjoyed such sports as boxing, gymnastics, martial arts, diving and skiing. Many of these sports helped to shape some of the movements incorporated into Pilates form.
England
Pilates instructed his method of physical fitness to detectives in the Scotland Yard. During World War I, he worked as a nurse in an England hospital. Because bedridden patients were unable to get physical activity, Pilates rigged springs to hospital beds so the patients could perform resistance exercises. In fact, an outbreak of influenza in England killed thousands of citizens, but all patients who practiced Pilates' exercises survived.
New York
Pilates moved to New York City in 1926 with his wife, Clara, where he opened his workout studio. There he trained many of New York's elite, including several dancers from the New York City Ballet. An exercise apparatus, based on the spring conditioning apparatus used in the English hospital, was constructed moved into his fitness studio. Pilates exercise became popular in New York City during this time, becoming a method of strengthening, conditioning, stretching and relaxation for area dancers.
Modern Pilates
Today Pilates is a popular fitness method in many nations. The Pilates technique has been adapted to fit the fitness challenges of many individuals. Pilates principles include relaxation, spinal alignment and breathing techniques. Many Pilates classes practice on yoga mats in gymnasiums and fitness centers, but some advanced forms of Pilates incorporate resistance training using a bench much like Pilates' original apparatus.
Caution
Before taking part in a Pilates class or any other fitness regimen, consult your physician to ensure that you are healthy enough to participate in this form of physical activity. If any health conditions arise during or after participating in a Pilates class, consult your health care provider immediately.
