Who is Joseph Pilates

The Pilates method of 34 movements is not a new age phenomenon it has been around for over 80 years.

Its founder Joseph Pilates born in 1880 in Germany was an extraordinary person, growing up he suffered severe attacks of asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever which left him with a stunted bone structure and twisted limbs.

Joseph Pilates did not accept the limitations of his body, he decided to overcome them, and worked systematically and tirelessly to create a system of exercises that would correct his disabilities. These formed the basis of his renowned mat exercises, which he called ‘The Art of Contrology’.

The “Art of Contrology” was renamed Pilates after his death in 1967 by Alan Herdman in 1970 when he introduced Pilates in the UK.

“Correctly executed and mastered to the point of subconscious reaction, these exercises will reflect grace and balance in your routine activities.”

Joseph Pilates

“Once you understand the Pilates philosophies, I personally guarantee that you will carry yourself differently for the rest of your life.”

Alan Herdman