The history of pilates and Joseph Pilates

Body Control Pilates is without a doubt remarkably effective even without the comfort for our clients that it is both medically approved and meets the national standard. It is of a holistic nature, being based upon a well-constructed philosophical foundation. It is very closely based upon the method of body conditioning and training developed by the late Joseph Pilates (yes a man) around the time of the First World War. He was a frail child and turned to physical fitness programmes to improve his body image, becoming a keen sportsman, developing talents in sports as varied as diving, gymnastics and boxing.

Joseph Pilates and the First World War

Interned in the war years because of his nationality, he developed a fitness programme for his fellow internees in order to maintain their health and fitness levels whilst being held in confinement – he always claimed that his regime was the reason why not one of these internees died from the influenza epidemic that killed thousands in 1918. Returning to Germany, he came into contact with the world of dance. He decided to emigrate to the United States of America. He set up his first fitness studio in New York, at an address he shared with the New York City Ballet.

Pilates moves to New York

His studio soon began to attract the ‘elite’ of New York with leading ballet dancers coming to him because his exercise perfected and completed their traditional exercise programme. Actors and actresses, sportspersons, the rich and the famous were all attracted to a workout that built strength without adding bulk, balancing that strength with flexibility, and achieving the perfect harmony between mind and muscle.

What pilates aims to achieve

His method relies on strengthening the core (stabilising) postural muscles, and developing body alignment. Increasing flexibility and strength, relieving unwanted stress and tension whilst at the same time bringing body and mind together. It avoids the muscle and ligament damage, sometimes associated with other fitness regimes. Body Control Pilates is very closely based upon this method making it both safe and enjoyable for any level of fitness.

Courtesy of Body Control Pilates

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