Joe Pilates was the creator of the exercise method called “Contrology” – after his death it became known as The Pilates Method. Joe was born in 1883 and died in 1967. HIs legacy still lives and his method of exercise is thriving.
Joe believed that the “modern” lifestyle, bad posture and inefficient breathing lay at the root of poor health and he set out to change that with his method of exercise.
Contrology encouraged the use of the mind to control muscles, focusing attention on core postural muscles that help keep the body balanced and provide support for the spine. The Pilates Method, as it is now known, teaches an awareness of breathing and alignment of the spine. It teaches Uniform Development which focuses on “turning down” the power of the global muscles like your gluteals and “turning up” the smaller muscles like your triceps and hamstrings. This focus creates a more uniform body.
Once precision in the exercises is achieved, then the transitions and flow from one exercise to another takes place. This flow creates strength and stamina. Pilates helps you to become strong by moving freely. If you’ve ever watched an advanced Classical Pilates Reformer class you will understand what I mean. The exercises move one into another. Even the transitions are part of the workout. It’s athletic, it’s graceful, it’s powerful and it’s beautiful! That is why I LOVE Pilates!