Pilates has been the best kept secret of the stars for years. It is pronounced "puh-lah-teez." Pilates helps movie stars maintain optimum shape. Dancers used Pilates as a matter of course to stay fit or as rehabilitation. Pilates integrates body and mind. In Pilates, it is more important to execute a few repetitions of an exercise correctly versus numerous, mindless repetitions. A Pilates student is fully engaged in this form of exercise during class. The result is longer, leaner muscles, clarity of mind, and a feeling of "refreshment" after class. Pilates incorporates elements of Yoga, swimming, Greco Roman exercise, breathing techniques, boxing, rowing, dance and gymnastics.

Who invented Pilates?

Pilates is a body mind exercise system developed by Joseph Hubertus Pilates approximately 80 years ago. Born to a Greek father and German mother, Joseph was a sickly child. He suffered from Rheumatic Heart Disease and other afflictions. In order to strengthen himself, he became physically active. He was a boxer, gymnast and circus performer. During World War I he was interned in England because he was a German national. During that time he worked as a "nurse" in the hospital (today his role would be more closely related to a Physical Therapist). Joseph "exercised" the patients, and taught exercise to the other detainees at night. What was significant about this is that it was the during the time of the Spanish Influenza where many millions of people died worldwide. No one in Joseph's care died. Hitler heard of Joseph's exercise methods and asked him to train the SS troops. Joseph respectfully declined.

Joseph left Europe to come to America. En route from Europe to America, he met his wife, Clara. Clara was a registered nurse, and they married and set up a studio in New York City. Joseph worked with dancers, theater people, and ordinary citizens, helping them with injuries, rehabilitation, posture and general fitness. He developed numerous pieces of equipment to improve strength, flexibility, and core stability.

How does the equipment play a role in Pilates?

Pilates equipment is special because it allows participants the option of exercising in non-weight bearing, partial weight bearing, or full weight bearing positions (lying down, sitting, standing). Exercises can be done upright, upside down, forward or backward. The equipment is so unique, it accommodates many ranges of motion, which are essential to optimum human performance.

How does Pilates improve the mind and spirit?

Pilates enhances the body/mind/spirit connection by fully integrating the breath, intention and focus into a workout session. The participant leaves everything else that is happening in life outside the doors of the studio. For one focused hour the client is completely engaged with the Self. The result is a profound feeling of well-being and healthfulness.