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History of Pilates |
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German-born Joseph H. Pilates (1880-1967) developed his unique form of exercise at the turn of the century. While interned during World War I, Pilates began developing his innovate movement form, then known as Contrology—the coordination of mind, body, and spirit—to assist in the rehabilitation of injured non-ambulatory soldiers. Using hospital beds and bed springs as the original design for his equipment, he fashioned machines that provided movement resistance to engage muscles achieving deep abdominal strength and liberating movement in the extremities. When Pilates came to New York his work was quickly adopted by nearby ballet companies and incorporated into the dance-training curriculum. Joseph Pilates felt that his work was far ahead of his time. Indeed today we are seeing his philosophy of the mind/body connection incorporated into numerous forms of movement training and medical practice. Experience for yourself the benefits of physical and mental well being through Pilates. |