Joseph Pilates
Pilates, a method of exercise and physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body. Originally called “Contrology” Joseph Humbertus Pilates began developing this system as a form of exercise and rehabilitation between 1914 and 1925. With systematic practice of specific exercises coupled with focused breathing patterns, Pilates has proven itself invaluable not only as a fitness endeavor itself, but also as an important adjunct to professional sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds. Pilates can be tailored to any level of not just fitness, but also of health.

Benefits of Pilates
Practiced faithfully, Pilates yields numerous benefits:
Increased lung capacity and circulation.
Strength and flexibility
muscular and mental coordination
Posture and core strength are all heartily increased
Improved Bone density and joint health improve
Pilates teaches balance and control of the body
Relief from hip and back pain

Machines to Matwork
In a way, Pilates equipment today is not much different than that of yesteryear. Spring tension, straps to hold feet or hands, supports for back, neck and shoulder are as important now as they were then. Because of the remarkable nature of the equipment to both challenge and support the body as it learns to move more efficiently, the inimitably designed pieces truly act as a complement to the challenging "matwork" exercises.