About Joseph Pilates and the Pilates Method

Originally invented by Joseph Pilates, and practiced for more than 80 years, the term “Pilates” can unfortunately now be applied to a variety of exercise fads. Trained and practiced in the original Pilates approach to fitness, Colleen believes in the techniques, exercises, methodology and equipment originally pioneered by Joe and proven by countless devotees to his invention.

Who was Joseph Pilates?

Born in Germany in 1880, Joseph H. Pilates was a sickly child who suffered from asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever. As a child, Joe started his quest to devour all knowledge about enhancing the human physique. As a young man, Pilates was in top physical condition and early on, earned a living thanks to his physical prowess as a boxer, circus performer and self-defense trainer. After emigrating to America, Pilates and his wife Clara founded a studio in New York City, where they disseminated their knowledge of human conditioning to elite groups of dancers and athletes. Earning legions of devoted students and practitioners, Joseph Pilates lived a long and prosperous life virtually free of the ailments that afflicted him as a child, passing away in 1967.

Working with industrial fabrication and engineering house Gratz Industries, Joseph Pilates designed and refined the exercise equipment that has proven to be so successful in Pilates training. Gratz remains committed to producing this equipment the way Joe designed it, which is one of the reasons we are proud to feature Gratz equipment.

What is the Pilates Method?

Pilates is made up of the exercises, philosophies and equipment envisioned, designed and refined by Joseph Pilates. Through proper training and application of the movements and principles of Pilates, you will acquire complete control of your body. With repetition you will gain more natural coordination and possess an almost subconscious grace. Pilates is designed to give you flexibility, grace and skill to aid you in your daily life, whether it be work or play.

Pilates is made up of over 500 exercises and has been around for over 80 years

Pilates can be done at any age and any fitness level and is for both women and men

Is perfect for beginners and challenging for top athletes

All sessions are one-on-one for 1 hour in a private setting

In my opinion, when done properly and on a regular basis, Pilates is wonderful for:

Improving Energy, Strength, Flexibility and Stamina

Enhancing Posture, Breathing, Focus, Body Image, Self-confidence and Self-esteem

Strengthening weak back muscles by building up your core muscles

Increasing blood circulation (blood flow)

Rehabilitation of old injuries (Please have a doctor’s OK before starting Pilates.)

Reducing stress and anxiety

And so much more! Come discover the positive benefits of Pilates for yourself!