What is Pilates?

Pilates is a unique form of exercise that integrates, mind, body, breath and movement in a manner which creates a safe and effective workout that gets results. Pilates will not only change the way you look, but also the way you move, think and feel.

Based on strengthening the deep muscles of the abdominals, pelvis and spine through the systematic practice of specific exercises and focused breathing patterns, Pilates has something to offer everyone; from general wellbeing through to professional sports training, pre and post natal through to physical rehabilitation.

What are the benefits?

• A strong and toned body
• Reduced stress
• Increased energy
• Enhanced concentration
• Improved breathing and circulation
• Greater flexibility
• Better posture
• Flatter abdominals
• A sense of calm and wellbeing
• A healthy back
• Improved sports performance

Joseph Pilates – Founder of Pilates

Born in Germany in 1880, Joseph Humbertus Pilates was a very sickly child who suffered from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever. Determined to overcome his childhood illnesses, he set about becoming physically stronger. By the age of 14, his body was so well sculpted he was working as a model for anatomy charts.

His repertoire of physical achievements included skiing, gymnastics, diving and bodybuilding and working as a boxer, circus performer and self-defence instructor for detectives when he moved to England in 1912.

In World War I Joseph was interned in the Isle of Man because of his nationality. Working with his fellow internees to provide rehabilitation through physical training, Joseph used his own body weight and improvised making fitness equipment by removing the springs from beds and used them like a pulley system to stretch and strengthen the body…..the Pilates method was born.

In 1926, Joseph moved to New York and opened his first exercise studio with his wife Clara. By 1940 the dance community had embraced his programmes and many of New Yorks’ finest dancers sought his tuition. Students went on to open their own studios and so the Pilates method spread, with each instructor adding their own signature to Joseph Pilates exercise regime, much as they still do today.

Since his death in 1967 (aged 87), the Pilates method and his 34 original movements have seen a century of world wide growth and change. The Pilates method is practised either using specially designed equipment or with the use of your own body weight and a mat.