Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1880.  He was a frail child, but as he grew older, he studied yoga, gymnastics, and self-defense.  When he became an adult, he traveled throughout England as a boxer and circus performer.  World War I broke out and he was shipped to an internment camp on the Isle of Man.  There, he developed exercise programs for inmates and used beds with springs as equipment.  This was the birth of Contrology (or Pilates, as we know it today).

 

In 1926, Joseph Pilates moved to New York and opened a studio.  He taught people that the mind and body work together.  He believed exercise was important for heart, gland, and all other tissues.  He focused on deep muscle work combined with proper form.  Many dancers sought his help to overcome injuries, and became more proficient dancers.

 

Joseph Pilates died at the age of 87.  His wife, Clara Pilates, continued teaching at the studio until her death in 1977. Joseph Pilates' teachings continued through several of his students (now called Elders).  The method practiced today that is true to the original teachings is called Classical Pilates technique.  It includes hundreds of exercises done on the mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Electric Chair, and many other pieces of equipment.