A History of Pilates

About a century ago, Joseph Pilates founded his New York studio, practising his own method of movement which focused on building a foundation of strength through the muscles in the core, using a plethora of specific movements.

Initially Pilates participants were professional dancers looking to extend their careers, improve posture, control and rehab injuries. Pilates’ method has endured for over 100 years and is still practised by millions around the globe, because it simply is fantastic for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Pilates looks deceptively simple, but it is the specificity of small movements in conjunction with establishing a real connection with the mind and muscles in synergy where the challenge and value lies. When practiced consistently, Pilates improves the way we move and breathe. It helps correct posture, develop joint stability and teaches us how to “brace” our core effectively. It is particularly helpful at easing pain and stiffness for people who suffer with chronic back pain. It is also a favoured method of movement for elite athletes, including NBA superstar LeBron James and NFL legend Antonio Brown, who work out using a Pilates Reformer to improve flexibility, fluidity of movement, coordination and balance.

It is incredibly easy to misunderstand Pilates and perform the movements incorrectly, which can have the opposite effect, Good form is essential!

Find a class to try the style of exercise first, trust me, you won’t pick up the specific nuances from a You Tube video or a few Insta snaps, so take the trouble to invest some time and energy into really learning and understanding the ideology behind the method.

Pilates also promotes a deep sense of relaxation. More research and studies are emerging which link it to enhanced mindfulness, spacial awareness, mood improvements and stress reduction.

Although not hugely cardio-vascular and perhaps will not illicit a vigorous sweat. Pilates establishes deep connections with the muscles and comprises of long isometric contractions, which encourages hypertrophy (increase in size of skeletal muscle) and improves metabolism. This can have a positive effect on the quality and tone of the muscles and fat loss.

If you are looking for a low impact method of exercise which will ease musculoskeletal pain, develop a super strong body and boost relaxation and mindfulness, Pilates is definitely worth a try.