About Pilates

Pilates was invented almost 75 years ago.

Joseph Pilates grew up suffering from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever - rather than let his illness get the better of him he created an exercise program bringing together eastern health techniques with western physiotherapeutic and anatomical knowledge...it's even said that his research went as far back as Greek and Roman times. By following his own program he gained enough strength to become a highly skilled gymnast, skier, diver, boxer and body builder.

Joseph observed that when a body had a weak or misaligned area a person would overcompensate or overdevelop another area. It was critical to not only correct the misalignment but to re-educate the body so that injuries didn't repeat themselves. He believed that true well-being could be achieved through physical fitness and a positive mental attitude.

Pilates soon became very popular with dancers, gymnasts and athletes who realized the benefits of this program of mental and physical conditioning that brought strength and flexibility to their bodies, as well as developing a strong link between body and mind.

Today Pilates is popular with people of all ages and fitness levels. The slow controlled flowing movements strengthen the core muscles that stabilize and support the spine, realign the body and correct postural problems. Pilates brings together the mind and the body, focusing strongly on concentration, balance, precision and breathing.

I always include Pilates in my personal training programs as well as teaching it stand-alone on a one-to-one or group basis.