What is Pilates?

Pilates is a series of exercises developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. The method focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. Often used as Physical Therapy, the method is excellent for people suffering from Sciatica, Herniated Discs, Spinal Stenosis, Scoliosis, Rotator Cuff injuries, Hip Replacements, ACL injuries, Osteoarthritis, and many more. A consistent practice of 2-3 sessions weekly will help to increase strength, flexibility, and stamina resulting in slender thighs, a flat abdomen, and toned arms.

History of Joseph Pilates?

Joseph Pilates (1880-1967) was born near Düsseldorf, Germany. As a child, Joseph Pilates suffered from a variety of ailments, including asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever. Determined to improve his spindly physique as well as his self-esteem, he became obsessed with bodybuilding, gymnastics, and the practice of yoga. By the age of fourteen, he had become so physically fit that he was hired to pose for anatomical charts. Pilates attributed the dramatic turnaround in both his health and his physical appearance to proper breathing techniques and correct posture, and he devised a series of exercises to maintain the well-being he had fought so hard to gain.

As a young man Pilates variously earned a living as a self-defense trainer, a boxer, and a circus performer in Germany and later in England, where he emigrated in 1912. Two years later, following the outbreak of World War I, he was classified as an enemy alien by the British government and was sent with other German nationals to the Isle of Man, in the Irish Sea. He was interned there for the duration of the war. To pass the time, he began teaching fitness exercises to other inmates. He devised special programs for those who were bedridden and created makeshift devices for strength training.

Following his release at the war's end in 1918, Pilates returned to Germany to work as a fitness trainer in Hamburg. The routines and machinery that he fashioned on the Isle of Man became the basis for what became known as the Pilates Method, the fitness program that he began to develop and refine during the postwar years. Word of his success with individual clients spread, and he was hired by the city of Hamburg to train its policemen. His techniques were also adopted by the German army. However, worsening economic conditions in Germany prompted Pilates to consider emigration yet again, and in 1925 he sailed for the United States. On board the ship he met a woman named Clara, who shared his interest in physical fitness. A romance developed, and they were married soon after their arrival in New York City.

Working in partnership with his wife, Pilates opened a gym, which he referred to as his "studio," at 939 Eighth Avenue, on the city's West Side. The neighborhood also had several dance studios, and soon he was attracting a clientele that included ballet company members as well as actors and athletes. As word spread of his teachings' effectiveness, laypersons seeking to improve their physical well-being also enrolled in his classes, prompted by a growing popular interest in so-called "physical culture" during the 1920s. Over the years Pilates trained some of his students to become teachers of his method; those who adhered strictly to his teachings became known as the "Pilates Elders" and practiced what became known as "Classical Pilates."

Citation:
Ann T. Keene. "Pilates, Joseph Hubertus";
http://www.anb.org/articles/19/19-00980.html;
American National Biography Online October 2008 Update.

Why Pilates of Palm Beach?

Pilates of Palm Beach is a classical Pilates studio. Our goal is to teach the Pilates Method the way Joseph Pilates originally intended. Our instructors are Power Pilates or Romana Certified, which means they have completed a rigorous training program with an unrelenting emphasis on the classical Pilates method.

All classes at Pilates of Palm Beach are level specific. This ensures the safety & quality of all sessions. It also guarantees that you get the most out of your Pilates practice! Prior to advancing to the next level, your instructor will evaluate your ability in terms of the 6 Principles of Pilates:

1. Centering/Stabilization – Initiating movement from a stable source, your core.
2. Control – Emphasis on the details of each exercise
3. Concentration – Having mindful intent & focus allows you to create a mind/body connection
4. Flow & Efficiency of Movement – Continuous movement between exercises through the use of appropriate transitions helping to build stamina
5. Breath – Recharging the body through full inhalation & exhalation
6. Precision – Every movement has a purpose