What is Pilates?

Classical Pilates is a method of whole body conditioning developed by Joseph Pilates. His work stretches and strengthens muscles, builds endurance, improves body alignment, restores muscle balance, promotes proper breathing, and engages the mind. Regular practice develops graceful bodies that move more effortlessly.

Joseph Pilates reportedly stated 'change happens through movement and movement heals'. Regardless of where you are in life, what challenges you face, whatever your age, Pilates can bring positive and healing changes to your life.

Who was Joseph Pilates?

Born in Germany, Joseph Pilates’ (1880-1967) childhood was plagued by illnesses, propelling him pursue health and fitness. He began his life’s work while still in his teens thanks in part to his gymnast father and naturopath mother exposing him to various exercise techniques, Eastern and Western. Pilates called his work ‘Contrology’ today known, simply as Pilates. Mr. Pilates practiced his exercises as he preached them, with the body, mind, and spirit functioning as a whole.

“Not mind or body but mind and body.”

– Joseph Pilates

What apparatus did Joseph Pilates invent?

Mr. Pilates designed numerous pieces of apparatus to accelerate the stretching and strengthening started with mat work. Today, we use it with the same purpose as well as to address the individual needs of clients. At EndWell Pilates we utilize four of his apparatus, mat, Reformer with Tower, Wunda Chair, and Power Circle.

The Reformer with Tower uses the resistance of springs to create effort. This principle piece of equipment consists of a sliding platform anchored at one end of its frame with springs. The platform can be moved by either pulling on ropes or pushing off from a stationary bar. Thus, exercises include the challenge of moving the platform and maintaining balance on a moving surface while lying, sitting, or standing. The Tower adds additional spring tensions and positions to work the arms, legs, trunk, spine, the entire body.

The Wunda Chair was invented as a result of Mr. Pilates’ observation of Chinese acrobatic maneuvers and when turned over it can double as an actual chair. The Wunda Chair is often used to challenge balance and strength as a student progresses from the introductory Pilates work.