Equilibrium

The Authentic Pilates Method

The Authentic Pilates Method Joseph H. Pilates was born near Dϋsseldorf, Germany in 1880, of Greek ancestry. As a child he suffered a series of illnesses, including asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever, and so he dedicated his life to improving his health and fitness ability. He studied body building, gymnastics and boxing. He was working in England when WW I broke out where he interned in an English camp with other Germans.

The Pilates method of exercise developed here, as he devised exercise equipment by attaching springs to hospital beds to help rehabilitate injured soldiers. Over time he developed other pieces of apparatus and series of controlled exercises that comprise Pilates, as we know it today.

The Authentic Pilates Method is designed to increase strength, flexibility, coordination, alignment, posture, and balance. The Pilates method focuses on developing core muscles without building bulk. It incorporates breathing patterns with specific exercises, increasing mind-body awareness. Students experience an increase in energy, muscle tone, and bone density.

Although Pilates was created nearly a century ago, many physical therapists, chiropractors, and orthopedists are only now discovering the benefits of Pilates. Furthermore Pilates is being used by dancers, gymnasts, ice skaters, spa clients and celebrities along with fitness professionals and recreational sports enthusiasts. Since Pilates sessions are done one-to-one or in small groups, each lesson is tailored to the student’s specific needs and capabilities. Pilates is designed for all ages and all levels of fitness, including the sedentary, injured, or professional athlete.