Pilates is a form of exercise and movement therapy that was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early part of the 20th century. Known as the Pilates method, the series of more than 500 exercises was designed to elongate muscles without adding bulk for enhanced strength, flexibility, performance and overall health.  Dancers, athletes, physical therapy patients and health and fitness buffs have relied on the method for over 50 years as a way to stay in top condition, enhance physical performance and minimize injury.

Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1880-1967) was a native of Dusseldorf, Germany. As a frail child diagnosed with numerous health problems, Pilates was only able to watch as other children ran and played outside. He became determined from a young age to overcome his physical limitations by building his body's strength, and believed he could do this and ultimately achieve more vibrant health through innovative, non-impact exercise. He began to study Yoga, Zen meditation and several ancient Greek and Roman exercise regimens, as well as studying anatomy to better understand the human body. Through his diligent study and experimentation, he was able to strengthen himself enough to become an accomplished skin diver, gymnast and skier while only in his teens.

Pilates' passion for health and developing a stronger body led him to develop and teach over 500 techniques that would help others develop greater core strength, as well as increased flexibility in the arms, legs and supporting muscle groups.  He would call this regimen “Contrology”, and in 1945 he wrote the book with William John Miller, “Return to Life Through Contrology”- defining the term as “complete coordination of body, mind and spirit”. While this term didn't stick, the term Pilates did.  Pilates had a clear goal – to share his methods for enhanced physical vitality and help others. In 1926, he packed his bags and left for the U.S. to continue to share the Pilates method and his message of better health with the world. Joseph Pilates continued to develop his techniques and teach in his studio until his death in 1967.