What is Pilates?
o Born in the late 1800’s, Joseph Pilates was a boxer, gymnast, and had studied numerous physical disciplines including martial arts, Chinese medicine & yoga. When interred during WWI, he developed his system of exercise to rehabilitate patients. People recovered at an amazing rate under his training & care. This system, which Joseph named Contrology, evolved further when Pilates immigrated to New York and opened a studio with his wife, Clara. Here, many of the best of New York’s dance and theatre community sought out his help to repair injuries and perfect the balance and control of their bodies.
o Pilates exercises all have elements of strength blended with elements of stretch and flexibility. All work is initiated through the core muscles of (primarily but not exclusively) the deep abdominals, the pelvic floor, and diaphragm; the total known as the “Powerhouse”. The movement is dynamic, but mindful and controlled. It’s deep and close to the bone, but works the full body. It works the body as an aligned and integrated whole as the body moves in real life, rather than isolated muscle groups.
o There are over 500 exercises in Joseph Pilates original work as transmitted by Romana Kryzanowska. In addition, there are many variations that other senior students of Pilates have developed. Each of the original series of exercises is part of a system, with a place in a precise order of performance, to strengthen, stretch and balance the body with a logic of movement that Joseph conceived and certified trainers continue to follow. This is known as "Classical" Pilates. When people refer to "New York Style Pilates", they are usually thinking about "Classical" Pilates.
o Today, more people than ever before seek trainers to help them learn this genius system of exercises. In 2005, nine times more people practiced Pilates than in 2000. This is due in large part to how outspoken celebrities such as Madonna, Daisy Fuentes, and celebrity trainers like Mari Winsor have been touting the virtues of Pilates exercise. Tiger Woods has been heard to refer to it as his "secret weapon". Because of the demand for Pilates, and the potential profit to be had, numerous “certification” programs have sprung up virtually overnight, but not all, (or even most) honor this comprehensive system of body training. “Buyer beware” has never been more important.
o Consumers of Pilates mat and private classes should inquire as to the type of certification successfully completed by the instructor, as well as to their length and scope of training experience. They should have completed a minimum of 400 – 700 hours of training and apprenticeship in all of the apparatus and mat, as well as have a comprehensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology and kinesiology. ClassicalPilates.net lists teachers originally certified by Romana Kryzanowska.
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