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The History of Pilates
The
Pilates Method is a physical fitness system developed
in the early 20th Century by German-American Joseph
Pilates.
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Joseph Pilates called the
method The Art of Contrology, which refers to the way the
method encourages the use of the mind to control the
muscles.
Instead of performing many
repetitions of each exercise, Joseph H. Pilates preferred
fewer, more precise movements, requiring proper control
and form. He designed more than 500 specific exercises.
The most frequent form, called "matwork", involves a
series of callisthenic motions performed without weight or
apparatus on a padded mat.
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 Pilates also designed five
major pieces of unique exercise equipment that can be
optionally used. In all forms, the "powerhouse" (abdomen,
lower back, and buttocks) is supported and strengthened,
enabling the rest of the body to move freely.
In terms of physical
exercise Pilates exercise resembles yoga but without the
spiritual element. It was originally used to bring injured
dancers back to full fitness, the idea being more to build
bodily co-ordination and flexibility than stamina or
muscle strength.
It has been used to train dancers in flexibility and
physical strength. In recent years it has become a popular
fitness modality. It has also been combined with yoga to
form Yogilates.
The first official Pilates Studio was opened in New York
in 1926.
For more information:
The
Pilates Power System
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