About Pilates

THE METHOD

Pilates is a series of movements developed in the late 1920's by legendary physical trainer Joseph Pilates. Using a padded floor mat and specially designed equipment, Pilates created over 500 exercises that stretch and strengthen muscles without adding bulk.

By focusing on the quality of each movement, Pilates increases your ability to move with control and precision. Results are stronger abdominals, greater flexibility, improved posture, increased energy and longer, leaner muscles. You will be in control of your body instead of at its mercy.

THE HISTORY

Joseph Pilates was born near Dusseldorf, Germany in 1880. A sickly child, suffering from asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever, he was motivated to improve his condition at an early age. By the time he was 14 he had studied several disciplines of exercise, both Eastern and Western, and was modeling his exceptionally developed body for anatomy charts.

In 1914 he toured England as a circus performer. There, with the onset of WWI, he was interned with other German nationals and took up teaching wrestling and self-defence to them. It was there that he began creating his method of original movements that would later be called Contrology. After the war Joe returned to Germany and began training clients with his unique exercises and specially designed apparatus.

In 1925 he refused an invitation to train the New German Army and instead took a boat to America. On the way he met Clara, an arthritic Kindergarten teacher. During the trip Joe was able to work with her until she lost her pain, but won his heart. They were married and arrived in New York in 1926. That year they opened a gym at 939 Eighth avenue. They shared a building with several dance studios and rehearsal halls which proved quick and efficient advertising for his work. He became a friend and teacher to famous dancer/choreographers George Balanchine, Martha Graham and others who realized the benefits of his work for their dancers and sent them to him for strengthening as well as for rehabilitation.

In 1966 a fire broke out in their building. Joe raced to try and salvage anything he could, but ended up falling through floorboards and hanging by his hands until rescued by firefighters. It is assumed that this incident directly led to his death in 1967. Clara continued to teach and manage the studio until her death 10 years later.

Zoë A Pilates Studio 21 South El Molino Ave Pasadena, CA 91101 626.585 8853