The Pilates method is named after its inventor, Joseph H. Pilates (1883-1967). Joe was born a sickly child with asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever. From a very young age he realized the importance of health and fitness that ultimately sent him on a life-long journey, developing what he called Contrology, and we now know of as the Pilates Method. Joe was a boxer, gymnast, and skilled diver. He practiced martial arts and studied both eastern and western philosophies, including yoga. The Pilates method includes more than 500 controlled, precise movements, designed to stretch and strengthen muscles without adding bulk.
Joseph H. Pilates was nearly a century ahead of his time in understanding that the key to life was a healthy, flexible spine. Pilates focuses on the core postural muscles that help keep the body strong and balanced, while working to align the spine and improve posture. Pilates teaches a strong awareness of breath and a profound mind/body connection.
“Uncle Joe” was very much an inventor. Not only did he develop the exercises that make up the Pilates method, but he also invented the unique apparatuses to perform them on. His equipment utilizes springs for resistance. Joe began by rigging springs to hospital beds, enabling the bedridden to exercise. These machines include the Universal Reformer, Wunda Chair, High (Electric) Chair, Trap Table or Cadillac, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, Ped-O-Pul, Foot Corrector, and Magic Circle. Joe created many more gadgets as well, with each designed to help strengthen the mind and body all the way to your toes!
"I invented all these machines. Began back in Germany, was there until 1925 used to exercise rheumatic patients. I thought, why use my strength? So I made a machine to do it for me. Look, you see it resists your movements in just the right way so those inner muscles really have to work against it. That way you can concentrate on movement. You must always do it slowly and smoothly. Then your whole body is in it." – Joseph H. Pilates
To learn more about Joseph H. Pilates and his rich history, please visit the following links: www.pilatesmethodalliance.com | www.pilates-pro.com
VBARRE
Vbarre is a fusion of classical ballet, Pilates, and resistance training. Using a ballet barre, band, ball, and glide board, the Vbarre workout shapes the body through energetic movement that challenges the participant and provides calorie-blasting cardio. Vbarre is a fun, powerful workout that yields real results!
Our instructors focus on form and flow to keep the body aligned correctly and participants moving safely. By providing smooth transitions and non-stop movement that amps up the caloric burn, Vbarre will increase your metabolism, burn fat, and leave you feeling energized. The Vbarre method balances the aspects of strength and stretch to create long, lean muscles with flexibility. With commitment to the technique, students get tangible results they can see and feel.
CLASS SCHEDULEClassic Pilates is the home studio to Vbarre creator Veronica Combs and is the Regional Vbarre Training Center. Click here for more information on becoming a Certified Vbarre Instructor.