Joseph H. Pilates developed The Pilates Method in the early 1900s. Plagued by asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever as a child, he wanted to find a way to strengthen his body. As an intern during the first World War, he began to teach fellow interns his new method, which he called the Art of “Contrology” or muscle control. Using this innovative new health program, he was able to successfully maintain and even improve the health of many patients throughout the influenza epidemic of 1918, a result that many in the medical profession noted. In 1926, Joseph H. Pilates moved to the United States and opened the first official Pilates Studio® in New York City.

His technique immediately attracted the attention of dancers and performers who discovered that the exercises not only helped rehabilitate injuries, but also enabled them to take their performances to a whole new level of athleticism and skill. Over the past 20 years, people of all ages and walks of life have discovered the strengthening, toning, and rehabilitation effects of Pilates. Health professionals, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts have all embraced the benefits of Pilates for rehabilitation, cross training, and general strength and conditioning. Even Hollywood stars, such as Madonna, Sharon Stone, and Jodie Foster, have recognized the benefits of Pilates and practice it regularly.