The History of Pilates

While Pilates may seem like a recent fitness craze, it was actually developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. In 1926 Joseph and Clara Pilates opened their ‘Body Conditioning Gym’ in New York. Joseph Pilates invented special machines to resist movement in just the right way so the inner muscles have to work against it. This revolutionized working out at the time as it forced the participant to concentrate on the movement and always do it slowly and smoothly.

Joseph Pilates, Founder of Pilates

The Pilates’ studio featured much of the Apparatus designed to enhance rehabilitation work and strengthen the core. It grew quickly in popularity until soon celebrities of the day began visiting the studio to improve their techniques or recover from injuries. 

Joseph Pilates based his work on three principles: breath, whole-body health and whole-body commitment. In modern day these principles are cited as breath, concentration, centering, control, precision, and flow. Pilates' method was able to be passed on after his death through his booklets called ‘Your Health’ and ‘Return to Life Through Contrology.’ While Joseph and Cara Pilates practiced this method it was called Contrology and after his death was changed to Pilates. Once Joseph passed, his wife also continued the practice and was able to instill the knowledge in apprentices who have been able to pass down the exercises for generations.

Body Conditioning Gym, 1920s

Throughout the years the Pilates Method has evolved and now includes bio-mechanical thinking, including utilizing modern pieces of equipment. However, due to Joseph’s booklets and Clara’s apprentices, the roots of the technique are still present in the philosophy and movement patterns designed by Joseph Pilates almost a century ago.

Pilates has become a worldwide phenomenon with over 12 million people and counting practicing this method of exercise. If this safe and effective form of exercise sounds like it might be the perfect fit for you, consider giving Pilates a try. Come visit us at Soteria Studio, your local Orlando Pilates Studio!