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What is pilates?The History of PilatesThe recent increase of media attention and celebrity interest would make you believe that pilates is a new exercise phenomenon. However, you may be surprised to learn that it was actually created in the 1920s by German born Joseph Pilates (1880-1967), who suffered as a child from asthma, ricketts and rheumatic fever; making him weaker than others of his age. He was determined to counter-balance his weaknesses and so developed a series of over 500 exercises to strengthen his core muscles; which helped him become an accomplished skier, diver, gymnast and boxer. It was not only on himself that Joseph Pilates practised his theories. Having moved to England in his thirties he was placed in an internment camp during the First World War where he worked as a nurse. It was here that he began to develop equipment by attaching springs to beds so that those immobile patients could still aid their recovery by doing light resistance work. Pilates, the pioneer, emigrated to America and opened his first pilates studio in 1926, complete with modified versions of the equipment he designed during the war (and which are still used today). He died at the age of 87 in New York City. What is Pilates? Pilates is an exercise method that concentrates on developing flexibility, endurance and strength without building bulk. Individuals use their own body weight as resistance to work through a variety of exercises, that sculpt and tone the body and so suits anyone from young adults to seniors, from ballet dancers to rugby players. It is a low-impact form of exercise that is actually a pleasure and never a chore. You always look forward to your next pilates session. Pilates can invigorate the start of your day or refresh, revive and de-stress you at the end of your day. Pilates stimulates the mind for mental well-being as well as conditioning and toning your body. Pilates sessions involve the instructor regularly observing and adapting the way each individual exercises. Whilst working one to one with an instructor is ideal, semi-privates or small groups of up to 8-10 provide an economic alternative and allow the instructor to remain ‘hands on’ ensuring each exercise is performed correctly. Clients with specific injuries or health problems will normally work one to one with an instructor until advised that they can work safely in a small group class. This approach to pilates is much more specific to the individual’s needs than normal ‘group exercise’ classes. So, what are the benefits of pilates?
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