Unique Exercise System Strengthens and Tones

By Susan Hard, Certified Pilates Instructor Pure Pilates Kansas City

How, you might wonder, did a form of exercise get a name like Pilates?

What today is known as Pilates (puh-LAH-teez) originally was called "Contrology" by its creator, Joseph H. Pilates. His research and education encompassed Western and Eastern medicine, ancient Greek philosophies, mathematics and engineering as well as anatomy, karate and yoga. Over his lifetime (he died at 83 in 1967) Pilates developed a unique scientific system of conditioning that improved the health and bodies of those who practiced it.

The Pilates method involves a series of exercises performed both on special equipment and on a floor mat, ideally in a one-on-one teacher/client setting. The equipment utilizes the resistance of springs to help teach proper movement and to help massage, align, stretch and strengthen muscles. It differs from conventional forms of exercise in its emphasis on quality and precision of movement rather than on speed or repetitions. The deep abdominal muscles, lower back and buttocks – collectively the "powerhouse" – serve as the center of all movement, allowing the rest of the body to move more freely. The balance between strength, flexibility and control of all muscle groups results in a leaner, stronger and more balanced body.
Pilates clients come in all sizes, no matter gender, age or fitness level. The strength of the system is its focus on individual needs. Pilates was designed to be taught one-on-one rather than in a large group environment. Without a trained eye to ensure proper form and execution, the body loses the intended benefits of Pilates.

Among those benefits are improved posture and balance; increased flexibility; strengthening and toning muscles; preventing and healing injuries; and relief from chronic pain. Heightened awareness and body control gained from Pilates carries into everyday life.

Today, Pilates programs vary in style and content. What constitutes "good" Pilates?

What one gains from Pilates depends on the quality and expertise of the instructor. Seek instructors whose training and certification demanded at least one year's commitment, hundreds of hours of observation, supervision of all their student teaching and written and oral testing to demonstrate thorough knowledge of the entire system.
Pilates thought of his system – now more than 80 years old – as a "unique trinity of body, mind and spirit." He wrote "With body, mind, and spirit functioning perfectly as a coordinated whole, what else could reasonably be expected other than an active, alert, disciplined person?"

Many faithful Pilates practitioners simply consider it a 'fountain of youth.'