Pilates: The Man and The Movement

December, 1883. A child is born in Mönchengladbach, Germany. Suffering from rheumatic fever and vulnerable to bouts of asthma, no one would have predicted the sickly son of Heinrich Pilates taking up professional boxing or becoming a fitness guru for the finest dancers in New York City.

And yet that's what happened to Joseph Pilates, the father of a movement that has captured the attention of millions worldwide. The brand of physical health regime that has come to be known as Pilates was originally coined 'Contrology', and as you may expect, it emphasizes control. Specifically, it emphasizes control over breathing, posture and balance, and is often used for rehabilitation purposes – like relieving back pain, as well as simply to improve core strength and coordination.

Urban American environments are, unsurprisingly, a hub for Pilates activity. In the hustle and bustle of the big city, a healthy body is as important as a healthy mind. From the tranquil exercise studios in the midst of the madness of Vegas to the impressive facilities of Pilates Downtown Chicago establishments, what was once a fringe alternative to Yoga has become something of a phenomenon.

Naturally, these comparisons between Pilates and Yoga are often made, and it's easy to see why. Both exercises use mats and encourage the relationship between body and mind. But there are a few distinct differences in the techniques and even in the philosophies. Where Yoga is a practice originating in ancient India that encourages meditation and spiritualism, Pilates is more physically oriented and is designed almost entirely to increase core strength rather than exercise the soul. Where Yoga is usually practiced on a mat, Pilates also encourages the use of various exercise machines. Many enthusiasts have incorporated both strategies into their regimes, using Yoga for emotional and mental stimulation and Pilates to develop a stronger physical discipline.

And it's not just for those looking to introduce a relaxed system into their exercise program. Joseph Pilates was about fitness, and trained in everything from performing in a circus to wrestling. He taught police officers in Scotland Yard self-defense, he spent the war in a British internment camp helping fellow inmates develop productive exercise regimes, and he gained the respect of dance pioneer Rudolf von Laban himself. With an expansive range of practical applications, Pilates' techniques resonate with anyone interested in developing and maintaining good health and consistent body strength.

If Pilates sounds like it may be for you, you'll have no problem starting out. Even if you're far removed from those bustling urban environments with easy access to somewhere like Pilates Downtown Chicago, Pilates studios really aren't difficult to find.

Who knows? You could be just one short commute away from finding your passion with Pilates.

If you’re looking for Gyrotonic in South Loop, Chicago, Roots of Integrity Holistic Fitness is the place to be. We’ll help increase your muscular strength and improve endurance.