The Pilates technique, devised by Joseph H. Pilates (1880-1967), is an exercise and rehabilitation technique aimed at improving the body’s musculoskeletal balance and postural alignment to create a strong, supple physique. This in turn aids the prevention of injury and improves everyday functionality.

Benefits of Pilates
In supporting and challenging all physical aptitudes, the Pilates Technique:

increases strength and awareness of core stability
rehabilitates and manages spinal and structural injuries or conditions
improves co-ordination
increases flexibility and range of movement
rebalances over-used muscles
releases the build-up of stress and tension
achieves and maintains desired physical performance levels

What is the difference between Pilates equipment and Pilates matwork?
Equipment work is performed using a variety of specialised Pilates apparatus. The apparatus is based on spring resistance which supports, encourages and challenges the use of the body’s own resistance. This allows a dynamic and adaptable range of exercises and is therefore suitable for all levels of ability. The equipment encourages an even workout throughout the body with the option to focus on certain areas according to each individual's needs.

Matwork is best suited to those not suffering any injuries and who have a healthy spine. Classes are based on the original repertoire of Joseph Pilates encouraging a well-balanced workout in each session. Matwork offers a different group-based dynamic versus the individual-based dynamic of equipment classes. They offer a further aspect of challenge from the point of view that they are performed without spring support and resistance relying purely upon the body’s awareness to create its own support and resistance.

History
Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1880. It was while he was living and working in England as a circus performer, boxer and self-defense instructor that, during WWI, he was interned with other German nationals. During his internment he began working on his technique for developing improved physical fitness in a confined space. Later Joseph became an orderly in a hospital working with bed-bound patients. By attaching springs to their beds in order to support their limbs, he first conceived the idea that would later lead to his well-known piece of equipment known as the "Cadillac".

In 1926 Joseph and his wife, Clara, opened a 'body conditioning studio' in New York which featured the specialized apparatus he designed to assist with rehabilitation work. Joseph's popularity quickly grew within the dance community for improving technique or recovering from injury. He quickly became the best-kept secret in New York.

In 1932 Joseph published a booklet entitled "Your Health" and in 1945 "Return to Controllogy". Through these writings and his students the Pilates method has been passed down and kept alive. Joseph died in 1967. He always believed his work was 50 years ahead of its time.

For additional information on Pilates go to www.pilatesfoundation.com