Was Joseph Pilates an Artist? The Creative Mind Behind the Method

As I round up another weekend of teacher training, I'm left thinking about good old Joseph Pilates (the man behind the method!) He was ahead of the times: an inventor, a movement artist, a creative who drew from gymnastics, boxing, yoga, dance… Even the circus to develop his ideas.

Over 100 years ago, he saw people disconnected, rushing through their days in bodies they'd stopped listening to. And his response was simple: move. Consciously. Creatively.

Whilst he was alive, he called his method Contrology: the complete coordination of body, mind and spirit. In his book Return to Life, he wrote “civilisation was impairing our physical fitness”, and that his method "renewed lively interest in life" and the "glowing and vibrant spirits" that allow one to live fully.

So where does that leave us now?

Here we are years later… living busy, full, noisy lives. Somewhere in the middle of all of it, the connection to our own body can get lost.

Pilates can be about getting that back. Not through force or discipline or pushing harder - but through conscious, attentive movement. Slowing down enough to actually feel what's happening. To breathe and arrive. From there we can strengthen, build, grow, improve flexibility, posture… allowing our body to become the best instrument it can be.

At Yellow Pilates, I aim to take Joe’s method and develop classes into a melting pot of connection, creativity, laughter and empowerment.

Your body is never a problem to be fixed, but rather a conversation to be had, an exploration of what’s possible.

Here is a video of Joe in action which I think you will enjoy! Interesting to see him exploring movement patterns in a creative & playful way. 

If you are looking for a class to renew your zest for life - visit the studio.

Find out what class is right for you here.

If you have any questions get in touch - email hello@yellowpilates.com