History of Pilates

The Pilates (puh-la-tees) method of conditioning was developed in the early 1900's by German-born Joseph Pilates. Placed under forced internment along with other German nationals during World War I, Pilates spent this time teaching other camp members the concepts and exercises he had learned through yoga, Zen and ancient Greek and Roman physical regimens. Considered revolutionary by many, Pilates incorporated important principles of breath, control, fluidity and accuracy of movement. During this time, he also began devising specialized equipment by attaching springs to hospital beds to create resistance exercises for bedridden patients.

In 1920, Pilates moved to New York City and opened his own studio that was widely used by dancers, boxers and other professional athletes. After his death in 1967, the Pilates technique began spreading across the country and became recognized as an important exercise system that could be used by anyone who wants to improve his or her health and fitness, from elite athletes to those rehabiliating from injuries.

Specific Exercises

Pilates work consists of specific exercises carefully performed on a mat or specially designed apparatus. The resistance-based training creates lengthened, flexible muscles that are toned and not bulky. The focus of the work is on strengthening the deep abdominals and muscles of the low back to obtain and maintain optimal posture, while the practice of conscious breathing integrates the mind and body as a whole.

Concentration and Commitment

The work demands concentration and commitment. As Joseph Pilates said,"In ten sessions you will feel the difference, in twenty you will see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a whole new body."

You will learn to integrate the principles of the work into your daily life, maximizing your efficiency, preventing injury, reducing aches and pains, and increasing stamina.

Pilates is appropriate for everyone, with modifications made for injury, pregnancy, sports training, and individual goals.

STOTT PILATES®

After an accomplished career as principal dancer with the City Ballet of Toronto and the Atlantic Ballet Company, Moira, together with President and CEO of STOTT PILATES Lindsay Merrithew and a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than a decade refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it safer and more effective. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs.

STOTT PILATES builds upon Joseph Pilates' vision by incorporating the latest medical research, modern exercise principles and contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and performance enhancement. For example, the original Pilates approach promoted a flat back, but STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and re-balance muscles around the joints.

STOTT PILATES International Certification Center (based in Toronto, Canada) requires instructors of this method to complete a rigorous curriculum, which includes use of a variety of specialized equipment, before they can become certified as teachers. Certification is dependent upon written and physical exams along with hours of practical application. Additionally, all STOTT PILATES teachers must complete continuing education credits each year to maintain certification status.