Developed in the early 20th century, the pilates method was devised as a full body fitness regime by Joseph Pilates and his wife Clara. Pilates focuses on controlling the muscles with the mind and our ability to do so, Joseph called this 'contrology'.

The pilates method is designed to work on the core postural muscles that provide essential support for your spine and keep the body balanced. A huge part in pilates is the teaching of proper breathing and aligning the spine which develops and strengthens the torso muscles. Because of the focus pilates delivers to the back and spine, people with back pain can benefit greatly from learning and performing pilates moves.

Piliates is not just a assortment of exercises, it is a method that has been developed over many decades by Joseph ad his wife Clara by observing and refining different aspects of the exercises. This has grown for over 80 years and can be defined by these basic principles:

• Concentration
• Control
• Centering
• Precision
• Breathing
• Movement

Please read over the rest of our site dedicated to pilates. We have information on how to exercise correctly using pilates, pilates equipment, pilates studios and pilates during pregnancy. If you have a specific question about pilates please use the form on the contact page.