WHAT IS PILATES?
Pilates, originally called Contrology, was developed in the early 1900s by German, Joseph Pilates. Joe, who was an avid boxer and gymnast, created a way of exercising based on the Greek ideology of being balanced in mind, body, and spirit. After relocating to New York City, Joe began teaching his method of exercise to dancers as a way of conditioning outside of the studio. In the 1970s, Pilates started gaining popularity among athletes, Hollywood elite, and rehabilitation professionals and is now being taught across the world to individuals of all backgrounds.
Pilates is a form of whole-body exercise based on the six principles of centering, breath, precision, control, concentration, and flow. Performed on the mat or on specialized equipment, Pilates can improve posture, balance, strength, athletic performance, and flexibility, as well as prevent injuries.