History of Pilates
by Rob Daniels
In order to understand the basics
of Pilates and why it can work for
you, you first need to understand
where Pilates came from. Joseph Pilates
is the man that marked the beginning
of the history of Pilates and a new
method of exercise began.
Susceptibility to asthma, rheumatic
fever and rickets left Pilates weak
and frail as a child. Pilates was
extremely motivated to strengthen
his body and overcome his physical
obstacles. Not yet a teen, Pilates
began researching many types of exercise
to aid in his strength-training program.
Joseph first developed the mat exercises
and these are the foundation of the
entire Pilates Method of body conditioning.
Joseph Pilates devised a unique sequence
of movements that worked the mind
and muscle in harmony.
At the same time, Pilates began developing
the system of original exercises known
today as "matwork," or exercises performed
on the floor. From here, Joseph Pilates
took his ideas and exercises and expanded
them to other pieces of equipment.
Then as the Pilates method became
more and more popular, the demand
for equipment grew.
Joseph Pilates practiced what he
preached, a method he called "Contrology,"
and lived a long, healthy life. Called
"Contrology" because of the emphasis
placed on precise movements and the
mind-body connection, Pilates' method
quickly grew in popularity.
Joseph Pilates trained many in his
exercise routines and techniques at
his studio until his death at the
age of 87 in 1967. Their knowledge
continues to permeate the Pilates
community and four of the five remaining
elders continue their work to this
day. Today, the Pilates Method is
applicable to a broad range of activities,
including sports training, mind and
body conditioning, and rehabilitation.
About the Author
Rob Daniels is a long term practitioner
of Yoga and Pilates additional articles
available at Pilates Shop http://www.pilates-shop.net
and Yoga Store http://www.yoga-store.net
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