About Pilates

Imagine an exercise program that you look forward to, that engages you, and that leaves you refreshed and alert with a feeling of physical and mental well being. The Pilates Method (pronounced puh-LAH-teez) of body conditioning will do all this... and more.

Developed in the 1920s by the legendary physical trainer, Joseph H. Pilates, the Pilates Method is an exercise system focused on improving flexibility and strength for the total body without building bulk. Not surprisingly, some of the first people to use the Pilates Method were dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine.

The basic principles of Pilates conditioning are to make people more aware of their bodies as single integrated units, to improve alignment and breathing, and to increase efficiency of movement. The Pilates Method works many of the deeper muscles together, improving coordination and balance, to achieve efficient and graceful movement.

Unlike other exercise programs, the Pilates Method does not require mindless repetition. The method consists of a sequence of carefully performed movements: some carried out on specially designed equipment. Each exercise is designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles involved, opening the joints and releasing tension. The Pilates Method includes specific breathing patterns for each exercise to assist in directing energy to specific areas while relaxing others.