Pilates is a method of exercise invented in the early 20th century by German-born Joseph Pilates. Originally called Contrology, the Pilates Method was the original core strengthening exercise, seeking to balance the body's muscles through focused stretching and strengthening exercises that focus on the Powerhouse of the abdominals, back, inner thigh, and gluteal muscles.
Joseph Pilates moved to NYC in 1926 and opened an exercise studio with his wife Clara. Throughout the next several decades the studio saw all walks of clientele, including dancers, boxers, reporters, actors, musicians, and New York socialites.
In addition to a series of floor or mat exercises, Pilates also invented exercise machines such as the Universal Reformer and the Tower that utilize springs for resistance and allow for exercises lying down, sitting, and standing. Pilates exercise gained more popularity after a New York Supreme Court ruling in 2000 which made the name and method more generic (like yoga) and therefore available to more people.
by Lynda Lippin
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