Pilates – From Beginning Till Now

The method known by the name of its creator, was called initially Contrology. Pilates studied both Eastern and Western forms of exercise including yoga, Zen, and ancient Greek and Roman regimen. In 1914 he was interned along with other German nationals in a "camp" for enemy aliens, here he began refining and teaching his minimal equipment system of mat exercises that later became "Contrology". In 1920 he goes in New York, where he opens a studio, the studio featured much of the Apparatus designed to enhance his rehabilitation work. Until the mid-1980s the Pilates Method of exercise was little known outside the world of dance but has grown in popularity rapidly in the last decade. Through the years the Pilates Method has gradually evolved and integrated current bio-mechanical thinking, including utilising modern pieces of equipment. Pilates exercises can be performed both on a mat or on specialized equipment called a Reformer. Pilates has now become a worldwide phenomenon with over 12 million people practicing, and the numbers continue to grow due to its effectiveness and adaptability.