Pilates, created by Joseph Pilates and originally called "Contrology," blends core strengthening, controlled movement, and specialized equipment. From a 1926 New York studio it grew into both classical and contemporary forms used in fitness and rehabilitation, and today has established certification pathways for instructors.
Pilates - originally called Contrology by Joseph Pilates - is a century-old system focused on core strength, alignment, and controlled movement, used in both fitness and rehabilitation.
Pilates is a movement system developed by Joseph Pilates that emphasizes core strength, breath, precision, and controlled flow. It includes mat exercises and equipment work (Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair) and is used for conditioning and rehabilitation.
A concise update on Joseph Pilates: his early illnesses, development of "Contrology" during WWI internment, emigration to New York with Clara, creation of mat and apparatus work, and the method's evolution into modern Pilates used in fitness and rehab.