What is the
Pilates Method?

The Pilates Method Of Body Conditioning was developed in the early part of the 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Driven by his fascination with human potential and dissatisfaction with existing approaches to fitness, he created more than 500 unique exercises performed on floor mats and specialized apparatus.

In the 1920s, he opened The Pilates Studio in New York City. Following his passing in 1968, Romana Kryzanowska—who trained Portland Pilates instructors Nancy Etnier and Susan Gates—took over as studio director.

Joe Pilates drew inspiration from classical Greek ideals of harmony and the Spartan focus on endurance. He also integrated Eastern movement systems, incorporating breathwork, mental relaxation, and suppleness derived from disciplines like yoga. This union of mental focus and physical training makes the method enduring and effective.

While originally embraced by dancers and elite athletes, Pilates is designed for individuals of all fitness levels and ages.

The Goal

The Pilates Method aims to cultivate core strength, total body control, spinal and limb flexibility, and integrated mind-body coordination. By focusing on quality over quantity through low-repetition sequences, muscles are strengthened and elongated without adding bulk.