The Pilates method takes its name from its founder: Joseph H Pilates. Born in Germany in1881, a frail childhood inspired his keen interest in physical fitness regimens. He studied yoga, Zen meditation, martial arts and other exercise techniques and became an accomplished gymnast, diver and boxer.
Taking shape
In 1912 he moved to England earning a living as a boxer, circus performer and self-defense trainer. During World War I he was interned with other German citizens in a camp where he trained other inmates in fitness and exercises. It was here that the beginnings of the true Pilates Method began to take shape.
Big in New York
In 1926, Joseph Pilates moved to New York and opened up the first Pilates studio (referred to as "Contrology" back then) along with his wife. Among his clients were dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine, who appreciated how the exercise method created long, lean muscles without building bulk.
The Method
His method focused on what he felt to be core muscles that help keep the body strong and provide essential support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and strengthen the deep torso muscles, which are important to help alleviate and prevent back pain.
Lasting strength
Joseph was an icon of fitness until he was 87, when complications from a fire took his life in 1967.