A BRIEF PILATES HISTORY

German-born fitness innovator Joseph H. Pilates (1881-1967) developed the Pilates exercise system in the 1920s. His interest in physical fitness stemmed from a determination to strengthen his own body and improve his health after a sickly childhood. With a background in yoga, Zen meditation, martial arts and other ancient fitness techniques, plus some success as a gymnast, diver and boxer, Joseph Pilates devised a unique sequence of movements that worked the mind and muscles in harmony.

He fine-tuned his wellness regimen while interned in England during the First World War. Working as an orderly at an infirmary, he engineered a way to rig springs on hospital beds to offer light resistance exercises to bedridden patients, and thus the seed for Pilates equipment was planted.

After the war, Pilates moved to New York. With his wife, Clara, he opened up a studio near the New York City Ballet in 1926. Shortly thereafter he drew a following with dancers who took to Pilates for its ability to create long, lean muscles and a strong, streamlined physique. Dance legends Martha Graham and George Balanchine were among his clientele.

In 1945, Pilates published Return to Life through Contrology, which described his philosophical approach to exercise. Soon, some of his students began opening studios of their own - some made subtle adaptations to the method. Word of Pilates slowly spread.

Pilates didn't really become popular, however, until the 1990s. The mind-body fitness movement took off as baby boomers started seeking gentler paths to health and wellness. Ancient techniques such as yoga and tai chi enjoyed a resurgence of popularity and Pilates followed suit. Pilates started popping up at neighborhood gyms. Hollywood celebrities and top athletes started singing its praise and the press picked up the story.