Pilates Then and Now: From Joseph Pilates' Contrology to Modern Practice

Joseph Pilates developed "Contrology" in the early 20th century and opened his first New York studio in 1926. His method - often cited as roughly 500 exercises - focuses on core control, alignment, and mindful movement, using mat work and apparatus such as the reformer and Cadillac. After his death in 1967, students preserved and adapted the system. Today Pilates is used widely across fitness and clinical settings, with established certification programs and both classical and contemporary styles.

What Pilates is

Pilates is a movement system focused on controlled breathing, core strength, alignment, flexibility, and mindful movement. Joseph Pilates originally called his method "Contrology." The work includes mat exercises and dozens of pieces of equipment - most famously the reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda chair - designed to add resistance and support.

Origins and development

Joseph Hubertus Pilates developed his approach in the early 20th century. He refined exercises while interned in England during World War I and opened his first studio in New York City with his wife, Clara, in 1926. Pilates taught dancers, boxers, and other athletes, and he promoted a repertoire of roughly 500 exercises that he believed improved posture, core control, and overall health. He continued teaching in New York until his death in 1967.

How Pilates spread and evolved

Students and protégés of Joseph and Clara carried the method forward after his death. Teachers such as Romana Kryzanowska and others preserved the classical repertoire while new approaches - including clinical and contemporary variations - emerged. Today you will find both "classical" Pilates that adheres closely to Joseph Pilates' original sequences and modern adaptations that integrate physical therapy principles.

Pilates today: fitness and rehabilitation

Pilates is widely used in fitness studios, dance training, and clinical settings. Physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists often use Pilates-based exercises to help people recover from injury, manage chronic low-back pain, and improve balance. Research over recent decades has supported Pilates for improving core strength, flexibility, posture, and functional movement in varied populations.

Training, certification, and finding an instructor

Unlike the early decades when knowledge passed directly from Joseph and Clara to students, professional training and certification are now common. Several recognized certification programs and professional organizations offer standardized teacher training, continuing education, and clinical integration courses. When choosing an instructor, look for formal credentials, supervised practical hours, and experience working with your specific goals (rehab, athletic training, prenatal/postnatal, etc.).

Practical tips for beginners

Start with a short series of mat classes or a supervised session on a reformer. Tell your instructor about any injuries or medical concerns so they can modify exercises. Progress gradually: Pilates emphasizes control and precision over speed or quantity of repetitions.