History Of Pilates Flashcards
Joseph Pilates
As a child suffered from asthma, rheumatic fever and rickets. And avid skier and diver and body builder turned boxer/self defense instructor.
Convinced that poor alignment and improper breathing was the root of illness.
During WWI
He helped bed ridden wounded soldiers regain mobility by providing resistance attaching springs to hospital beds, as it would be the beginning of the reformer machine, and during this period he perfected his mat exercises first called “Contrology”
He was also a student of yoga, and applied all he knew on his students. Why the big epidemic hit his are in 1918, not a single of the people he trained died. He claimed that it was because they were in such an excellent physical shape that they survived, therefore, pilates method was born.
1926
Pilates emigrated to the states and opened his studio in the same building as New York Ballet. Soon after dancers were incorporating his exercises into their routines, as it spread through the the country.
After his passing
His students opened studios all through the country, and as it gained popularity, and it because known in Hollywood it spread becoming a staple at studios and gyms. Over 10 million Americans practice pilates today, with people being added daily worldwide.
Benefits of Pilates
Improved Posture and alignment Alleviated back pain Stronger muscles Increased flexibility Increased agility Increased range of motion Body awareness/mind-body connection.
Pilates was created and by whom
Created on the early 20th century, created by Joseph H Pilates to increase his own health and athleticism
