Origins of Pilates
'We retire too early and we die too young.' Joseph Pilates
Pilates, originally called Contrology, came to life in the 1920s when Joseph Pilates developed the discipline as a rehabilitation program for prisoners of war while being interned with other German nationals during the First World War. As a child Pilates had suffered with rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever but was determined to overcome his afflictions, and pursued many different forms of exercise in his quest to achieve the perfect body.
Pilates history was built upon and fused elements of yoga, boxing, gymnastics, skiing, dance and weight training. He combined the effective elements of each individual discipline to create a system of exercise that creates a perfect balance between strength and flexibility.
The evolution of Pilates
Pilates is continually evolving and now involves the latest biomechanical thinking, including modern equipment and assessment tools. However, the basis of the thinking and patterns designed by Joseph Pilates around 100 years ago remains the same.
Pilates has grown in popularity since the time when Joseph Pilates came up with the concept, and is now practiced by over 12 million people worldwide, a number that is growing all the time.
Pilates today
Today Pilates has many followers including dancers, athletes, physiotherapists, fitness trainers, health care providers and other professionals who appreciate the significant role exercise plays in restoring and maintaining good health. Endorsements from people in the public eye such as Jennifer Aniston, David Beckham and Pippa Middleton have added to the boom in recent years. Are you interested in attending a Pilates Course in Newcastle or Northumberland? Find a Pilates Class near you.
An Animated History Of Joseph Pilates
Booking a class
If you live in the Newcastle Upon Tyne or Northumberland area, and you’re interested in joining one of our Pilates Classes, please get in touch, We’d love to see you in our next class! You can reach me via the details on my contacts page.