About Pilates
Pilates (named Contrology by Joseph Pilates (1883 – 1967) was created as a system of exercise to keep the body and mind healthy, based on his studies of anatomy, Yoga, Boxing and Gymnastics. Joseph Pilates developed 34 Mat exercises and patented 26 pieces of specialist apparatus, including the Reformer, Cadillac Trapeze Table and Wunda Chair.
Originating from Germany, Joseph Pilates was working in the circus in the U.K. when the First World War broke out and was, therefore, interned in the ‘Enemy Aliens’ camp on the Isle of Man in 1914. He worked in the Infirmary and as the months turned into years, watched as his fellow internees became depressed in body and mind. He also watched the camp cats that, however starving, stayed sleek and fit. Based on the cats’ constant stretching, tensing and releasing their muscles and combining this with the work he had done on the way babies and children move and play, he developed a series of exercises for a complete body workout.
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He moved to New York in 1926 and opened his studio next to the New York City Ballet, where he started 'fixing' dancers with injuries. Dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine would train at his studio on the apparatus to strengthen their bodies and heal their aches and pains’. He trained many celebrities and film-stars including Joan Collins and Laurence Olivier! He was passionate about spreading the word of his system, even writing to President JF Kennedy, to try to get it included in the school National Curriculum.
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To Joseph Pilates the apparatus was integral to his method – like a jigsaw puzzle, each part contributes to create the bigger picture. Discover more about the different equipment we use here.
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Those who trained with him are referred to as ‘First Generation’ Pilates instructors, often setting up their own studios and training schools. Romana Kryzanowska studied with Joseph, having been taken there by George Balanchine to fix an ankle injury and was named his protégé, after his death in 1967, Clara Pilates asked Romana to take over The Pilates Studio to continue his work.​
​Moira Stott, a Canadian dancer, also went to The Pilates Studio to be fixed after a dance injury and was trained by Romana Kryzanowska. In 1988 she started STOTT PILATES® with her husband Lyndsey Merrithew. ‘STOTT PILATES® is unparalleled in the Pilates world for the quality of education and standard of equipment they have developed. STOTT PILATES training has been called the 'Ivy League' of Pilates education. At Pilates Now! all the instructors are STOTT PILATES qualified and the equipment is all Merrithew Ltd to make it the best possible experience for any client.
STOTT PILATES®: INTELLEGENT EXERCISE. PROFOUND RESULTS
MERRITHEW HEALTH AND FITNESS®: Leaders in Mindful Movement
INTELLEGENT EXERCISE. EXCEPTIONAL EQUIPMENT​
Leaders in Mindful Movement
“We founded Merrithew® in 1988, with the aim of developing high-integrity fitness education programs, equipment and services to help fitness professionals and enthusiasts fulfill their potential. Our philosophy is that effective, responsible and mindful exercise is the foundation of a better life – and should be accessible regardless of age, fitness level or ability.
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Working with a team of physical therapists, engineers, sports medicine and fitness professionals, we continue to develop and innovate our education, equipment and products in line with the latest exercise science research and fitness knowledge, while maintaining our commitment to safety, effectiveness, quality and originality.
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In the last three decades, as the popularity, understanding and awareness of the benefits of mindful movement have expanded around the world, we have adapted our education programs to further reflect the importance of mind-body awareness, connection, focus and body control. Our programs have evolved to accommodate more diverse populations and exercise needs, and are sought-after by elite athletes wanting to improve their overall performance, to rehab patients looking to restore movement in their bodies, and active aging patrons seeking to improve their quality of life.
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Through our premium equipment and education programs, we provide services and solutions to help fitness professionals and health care practitioners grow their businesses and client bases through mind-body movement.
We’re honored to be recognized as The Professional’s Choice™ by studios, fitness facilities and fitness professionals worldwide.”
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— Lindsay G. Merrithew · Co-Founder, President & CEO