Pilates is a system of specific exercises – either done without equipment on the mat, or with equipment such as Reformers, Towers, and Chairs – originally developed by Joseph Pilates, a German fitness enthusiast born in 1883. 

Joseph was often sick as a child and followed his fascination with movement to help heal his physical ailments. He developed a system of exercises – originally called Contrology – intended to strengthen the human mind and body, and their connection to each other. After emigrating to the United States, Joe began patenting his signature pieces of equipment and opened “The Pilates Universal Gymnasium” in New York City. Joe’s workouts were popular among actors, boxers, and dancers, but were not widely available to the public. 

By the 1970s however, Pilates had entered the fitness mainstream. Today, Pilates is a standard offering in many gyms and is known for being a low-impact but highly concentrated series of movements that strengthen the core and increase flexibility. For a system so specific – and over 100 years old – to continue growing in popularity is a testament to the sustainable wisdom and brilliance of Joe’s approach.

In short, Pilates is wise exercise.

Here at Pilates Brevard, we focus on spine stability as a means to strengthen the body from the inside out, so eventually, every move you make originates from the core. The body’s own resistance is leveraged against itself to create dynamic exercises that challenge and strengthen the stabilizing muscles of the spine, pelvis, and shoulder girdle, and when done properly, workouts involving only the smallest movements can leave you shaking in a matter of seconds.

So why not join the legacy and come experience Pilates for yourself to learn more!