History Of Pilates

Developed in the 1920s by the legendary physical trainer Joseph H. Pilates, the Pilates Method is a series of exercises that can be performed on a mat or with specialised equipment.

Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1880. He started life as a small, frail child, which fuelled his fascination with exercises that would make him healthier, stronger and more physically attractive.
Obsessed with attainment of the perfect body, he became an accomplished skier, boxer and gymnast.

During World War I, Pilates was interned due to his nationality and it was during this time that he designed exercise apparatus used to rehabilitate injured war victims.

In 1926, Pilates and his wife opened their first studio
in New York City where many of their first clients

Founder Joseph H. Pilates at 70 years of age

came from the world of dance. Eminent dance
masters such as George Balanchine, Jerome
Robbins and Martha Graham became devoted
to his method.