The Pilates Method of exercise has its origins in the work of the late Joseph Pilates who was born in Germany. As a youth he became a keen sportsman in gymnastics, boxing and diving. As an intern in the war in Germany he developed a fitness programme to improve health and fitness for himself and his fellow internees. Post war he became involved in the dance world especially ballet. This is how Pilates has evolved into an exercise programme encompassing health, fitness, strength flexibility and fluid graceful movements.

Body Control Pilates are adapted from the ‘classical’ exercises developed by Joseph Pilates. In order for someone to work safely and effectively and to gain the full benefits of Pilates, these classical exercises have been broken down to establish  good movement skills thus building the best possible foundation upon which to progress to the classical and more advanced work. Central to the method is ‘awareness of your own body’ and each and every exercise is built around eight basic principles:

Relaxation, Concentration, Co-ordination, Centring, Alignment, Breathing, Stamina and flowing Movements.

By working on the deep architectural structure of the body ‘core stability’ is achieved and then maintained through increasingly complex movement sequences. Specific problems areas can be targeted but always in relation to the rest of the body. Body Control Pilates literally teaches you to be in control of your body, bringing a heightened sense of awareness, to allow you to release unnecessary tension and to move the body in more efficient manner.

The Body Control Method can work for everyone, regardless of fitness level. Exercises can be mat based or machine based. The matwork based exercises can be a great way to introduce people to the method and requires no special equipment. It can be thought individually or in a class based setting. Pilates works particularly well with Physiotherapy and rehabilitation. It is a safe effective way to further your rehabilitation and improve confidence in exercising under the guidance of your teacher.