Pilates: Trending workout of the year - But how did it get its start?

Pilates had a major resurgence in the past year and has been THE trending workout. From tiktok and instagram posts to celebrities, the method keeps popping up. So how did it get its start?

The Man Behind the Method

Joseph Pilates was born in Germany. Aside from being a very active individual, little is known on his earlier life. Throughout World War I. Joseph interned in a British camp as a German national. He began experimenting with exercise techniques on his fellow inmates. During his time as a hospital orderly, he worked with patients unable to work. Here he attached bed springs to hospital beds to helps support the patients’ limbs. His unique exercises focused on using minimal equipment and maximizing efficiency – ground zero for what would become modern Pilates.

From New York to the World

After the war, Joseph moved to New York City, where he opened his first studio. He introduced his innovative system to dancers and athletes, helping them recover from injuries and enhance their performance. The Pilates method was officially on the map!

Contrology – The Original Name

Joseph initially called his method "Contrology" because it emphasized the importance of mind-body control. Eventually, it took on his last name, and Pilates was born.

Pilates - Today

Today, Pilates is a global sensation, with studios and practitioners all over the world. It's no longer just for dancers and athletes – it's for anyone who wants to strengthen their core, improve flexibility, and feel fantastic. This practice focuses on the spine, and can be tailored for the body at every stage. It also incorporates functional movement to keep you strong on the go in everyday life.

From what started in a POW camp to what you now see in beautiful studios across the world, Pilates has become a worldwide fitness phenomenon. It's a testament to the power of innovation and the enduring pursuit of a healthier, happier life.