In the early part of the 20th century, Joseph Pilates, an athlete and physical fitness enthusiast developed an exercise system intended to rehabilitate the victims of the 1918 Influenza Pandemic and the survivors of World War I internment camps. Pilates named the system “Contrology” to reflect his aim of training the mind to develop control of the body’s muscles.

Mental Control

Now called “Pilates,” the goal of the system is to combine the mind and body into a physical unit capable of moving gracefully without thinking about it. The most important element of the Pilates moves is the concentration involved. While performing the moves, one pays attention to the body performing the moves.

The second important element is breath control. Joseph Pilates believed in the healing power of oxygenated blood. The key to breath control is a strong, deliberate exhale. While performing the Pilates moves, one should concentrate on breathing. All of the exercises come with precise instructions for the proper breathing regiment to go with them.

The concentration is part of the training. The exerciser must concentrate on the movements and on the breathing, working them together to unify the body and mind. The most minor part of the Pilates moves should be controlled by the mind. Along with the general control of the body during the moves, the slightest position of the fingers, head and all of the body has to be controlled while the mind is aware of them.

The center of the body from top to bottom was the area of most concern for Pilates. He believed that these large muscle areas were the source for the body’s strength and balance. The fluid Pilates moves emphasize the suppleness and graceful movement of the healthy body. Increased strength comes from using the body’s own weight and from working against the tension of springs and some simple props.

Every detail of each of the Pilates moves is carefully planned and intended to be executed precisely to encourage naturally, unselfconscious grace in everyday motion. The emphasis of the Pilates system is on lengthening, strengthening and realigning. The balanced application of Pilates moves helps to avoid injury. For those with injuries, the Pilates method can be used with the oversight of a therapist to fulfill the original intent of Joseph Pilates to rehabilitate and strengthen weakened bodies through the principles of concentration, control, center, alignment, breathing and flowing movement.

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