Pilates is a system of exercise that not only helps to tone and strengthen your body, it also encourages the integration of mind and body, develops flexibility and promotes overall well-being. The Pilates system was actually developed in the early 20th century, but it did not become popular until the early 1990s.
Pilates Early Years
The Pilates system was developed in the 1920s by a German fitness enthusiast and exercise instructor, Joseph Pilates. He was born in 1881 in the relatively large German town of Dusseldorf. He suffered from numerous physical ailments as a child, which lead to his interest in physical health and well-being. He studied anatomy, Eastern and Western philosophies such as Zen and various types of body work such as yoga, according to Pilates instructor Elaine Mary Dutton in her book, "The Elenpilates Stockpile Textbook: Connecting Joe Pilates' Exercises Between Technique and Practice." He became a boxer, gymnast and diver at age 14.
Pilates Development
Pilates moved to England before World War 1. He formulated his own system and theory of bodywork during the war when he was incarcerated, along with other Germans, in Lancaster, on the charge that he was an "enemy alien," according to Golf Pilates.com. During his incarceration, he worked his ideas into the specific set of Pilates exercises to help his fellow inmates stay in shape. Shortly after his detention, he became an orderly in a hospital on the Isle of Man, working with those who were wounded in the war. Here he used various types of hospital equipment, such as bed springs, to assist those who were unable to exercise due to muscle atrophy. These innovations are still seen today in Pilates classes that use different types of resistance equipment, such as resistance bands.
Pilates Later Years
Pilates returned to Germany after the war, but moved to New York in 1925, where he opened up a gym with his wife Clara. His studio was nearby several schools of dance. In fact, his studio was discovered by Martha Graham, according to GolfPilates.com. The Pilates technique was eventually incorporated into the workouts of various dance schools due to his emphasis on flexibility, core strength and overall body conditioning. Pilates died in a fire in 1967, but his wife continued to teach at their studio until her death.
Pilates Method
Pilates believed in harmonious, balanced living. His method focuses not only on the specific execution of his exercises, but also encompasses factors such as sleep, diet, breathing techniques, stress reduction and bathing. His philosophy was initially known as "Contrology," meaning the coordination of body, mind and spirit, according to authors Alan Herdman and Jo Godfrey Wood in their book, "Coffee Break Pilates." His focus on the value of balance is seen in his workouts, which help to promote good posture through flexibility and core strength, proper breathing techniques, muscle control and relaxation.
Member Comments