“Body Contrology”, the name given to this body of work by it’s originator, is a much more descriptive name than the one for which it has become so well known. Meaning the study of or science of, the complete control of the body. It fits this German born man, much better known in his earlier days for his mastery of self-defense techniques and the training of police officers and military troops than dancers. He was obsessed with the physicality of movement, and the inseparable link between the body, mind and spirit. He studied multiple forms and philosophies of movement, including yoga, Zen, and ancient Greek and Roman regimens, and the body of work now credited to him, drew from all of these practices.
Best described in his own words, “Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure.”
He felt that all people should do his exercises, and that all would be much healthier if they did. He was extremely passionate about his work, and had complete faith that his work would transform people’s bodies and lives. One of his most famous quotes is, “In 10 sessions you will feel a difference, in 20 sessions you will see a difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body!”
More the innovator than the teacher, when asked by a student “What is this exercise for?” his answer was the brief, “It’s for the body! Just do it!”. The art of teaching rested with his wife, Clara, who understood her husbands work so well, that she was the one from whom a deeper insight into the work would come. It was from her close relationship with Ron Fletcher, a student of the Pilates’, that he, Ron, developed such a deep understanding of the work known, at the time, as “Contrology”.
For further information on Joseph and Clara Pilates, please visit www.pilatesmethodalliance.org.
Best described in his own words, “Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure.”
He felt that all people should do his exercises, and that all would be much healthier if they did. He was extremely passionate about his work, and had complete faith that his work would transform people’s bodies and lives. One of his most famous quotes is, “In 10 sessions you will feel a difference, in 20 sessions you will see a difference and in 30 sessions you will have a whole new body!”
More the innovator than the teacher, when asked by a student “What is this exercise for?” his answer was the brief, “It’s for the body! Just do it!”. The art of teaching rested with his wife, Clara, who understood her husbands work so well, that she was the one from whom a deeper insight into the work would come. It was from her close relationship with Ron Fletcher, a student of the Pilates’, that he, Ron, developed such a deep understanding of the work known, at the time, as “Contrology”.
For further information on Joseph and Clara Pilates, please visit www.pilatesmethodalliance.org.
