Joseph Pilates, born in Germany in 1880 began developing his exercise system in the 1900's. He set up his first approved Pilates studio in New York after immigrating to the US in 1926 and continued to develop his methods until his death in 1967. It was the secret of dancers and performers until the 90's when it was discovered by athletes, models and actors and has now become increasingly popular with the general public.

Pilates's development of the method evolved into a vision of an ideal lifestyle, attained only through balance of the physical, mental and spiritual. Pilates believed to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. The renewed spirit of thought and movement is the first step toward stress reduction, grace of movement and a greater enjoyment of life.

Today Pilates is used for a variety of reasons. A commitment to Pilates work will promote greater trunk and pelvic stability, as well as improving movement and muscle control of and around the spine itself. Such control is requisite to both preventing spinal injury, and managing any existing back or neck pain.

Pilates exercises specifically aim to create muscle balance in the body, greater co-ordination of movement and control of the abdominals and breathing. These exercises encourage the use of the body as a whole unit, developing strong, lean musculature, rather than allowing individual muscle groups to develop isolated strength and to become bulky.

The Pilates repertoire of exercises is very adaptable, with most exercises having both a modified and a progressive version. This is why Pilates can enable people of all levels to enjoy its benefits.

When these series of movements are executed in a precise and flowing manner, an authentic synergy between mind and body is met, natural poise is achieved, and overall well being is enhanced.

The Pilates way of exercising involves starting from basic awareness of your posture, movement and breathing. Once these essential concepts are embodied, you will find its benefits will translate to your everyday activities. Pilates will add to your enjoyment of life and assist you in reaching your optimal functionality.