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| Joseph H. Pilates
(born 1880, Germany) was a frail and sickly child who suffered from
rheumatic fever, rickets and asthma. He studied the martial arts,
yoga and boxing among other Eastern and Western exercise philosophies
and was determined to overcome his own physical weaknesses.
He invented mind and body exercises, which he called Contrology designed
to rehabilitate, strengthen, stretch, coordinate, reshape and condition.
During WWI, he spent time in a military camp in England where he trained
soldiers in self-defense techniques. He treated the injured and wounded
through his simple resistance and stretching exercises. Joseph H. Pilates
immigrated to the United States in 1923, and on the way met Clara,
a registered nurse who would become his wife and partner. Together, in
the 1950’s, they established a studio in Manhattan and gained a large
following of athletes and dancers. He died in 1967 at the age of 87. |
Joseph H. Pilates
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This non-impact, anaerobic and effective exercise program is recognized
worldwide for its ability to strengthen and condition the abdominal and back
muscles. It is renowned for increasing flexibility and strength, improving
posture and coordination and synchronizing mind and body by neutralizing the
pelvis, shoulder girdle and ribcage to create a "girdle of strength"
around the spine. It promotes ease and efficiency of movement through focused,
slow, careful and controlled exercise. A Pilates mat class consists of a gentle warm-up
and progresses to a series of focused floor exercises performed on an exercise
mat. Special emphasis is given to proper form, use of breath, alignment,
coordination and whole body awareness. Research supports this exercise program
for the benefits offered to those suffering from lower back and spinal problems.
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