History of Pilates
Joseph Pilates and his Legacy
Joseph Pilates was born in Mönchengladbach, Germany, in 1883.
Pilates grew up with a variety of health problems, including asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever.
His father was a prize-winning gymnast, his mother a naturopath, so despite his physical challenges, Pilates was determined to become strong and healthy. He began studying various forms of exercise and movement to improve his health including the principles of yoga, Zen Buddhism, and ancient Greek and Roman exercise systems.
Pilates believed that the key to good health and physical fitness was the proper alignment and control of the body’s core musculature. He developed a system of exercises that focused on strengthening and toning the muscles of the abdomen, back, and hips.
Pilates emigrated to the United States in 1912 and worked as a circus performer and professional boxer. During World War I, Pilates worked as a nurse and began to develop his method of exercise, which he called “Contrology.”
Contrology, he believed would benefit people of all ages and fitness levels.
in 1926 Pilates opened a studio in New York City sharing an address with New York City Ballet, where he taught his method to a variety of clients, including dancers, athletes, and celebrities.
The effectiveness of Pilates method quickly gained popularity as a way of injury prevention for professional athletes as well as form of rehabilitation following an injury or surgery.
Pilates has been endorsed by many health professionals, including physical therapists and doctors, as a safe and effective form of exercise for all ages and abilities.