What is Pilates?

Pilates is a mat-based exercise class, performed with only gentle background  music, using precise movements and breathing techniques to build a strong flexible body.

It is a mind body conditioning programme that targets the deep postural muscles of the abdomen, spine and pelvic floor to improve overall central core stability and posture.

Contrology (Pilates) develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.

 Joseph Pilates (1883-1967)

Where did Pilates start?

Pilates is named after its creator, Joseph Pilates, born in Germany in 1880.

He spent his childhood fighting rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever. As a child he lived in pursuit of optimum health and fitness. In England he trained as a boxer, circus performer and self-defence trainer before developing his own exercise programme. During World War I he was interned and while working as a nurse taught fellow prisoners his series of exercises. In 1926 he moved to New York and opened his first studio which attracted many famous dancers and athletes.

Why do Physiotherapists teach Pilates?

Teaching exercise is a core skill of all physiotherapists. Physiotherapists recognise the benefits of well structured, carefully performed exercises, rather than more frantic jumping and running around activities.

For many years the Pilates method has been taught and used by dancers and professional athletes as a form of rehabilitative exercise to aid recovery from injuries. Hundreds of pupils have proven that a regular pilates class supports 1:1 work in physio, or even replaces the need for physio sessions longer term. We love that!