Simply put, Pilates is a methodical exercise system containing specialized movements along with breath work. It is commonly used for physical rehabilitation, overall fitness, and to complement specific sports performance. Joseph Pilates, its founder, intends that it,”develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong posture, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit”. It is, “designed to give you suppleness, natural grace, and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, in the way you play, and in the way you work. You will develop muscular power with corresponding endurance, ability to perform arduous duties, to play strenuous games, to walk, run, or travel for long distances without undue body fatigue or mental strain. And this is by no means the end.”

Pilates is generally taught in group classes for mat or reformer, or one on one in a private studio setting. This can include mat, reformer, trapeze table, barrels, and chair, to name a few of the apparatus Joseph Pilates created. 

Mat Pilates, also known as Contrology, is performed on a yoga mat or a raised padded platform. It is the most commonly known form of Pilates to the public.

The reformer is the most popular and most loved of the apparatus Joe invented. It utilizes different spring tension that glides a platform along rails. This allows the user to work different parts of the body at various intensities and can be done lying down, standing, kneeling, or sitting. 

The trapeze table, also know as the Cadillac, is the most versatile of the apparatus. It resembles a narrow bed with canopy framing. Along the framing are attachment points for different springs and attachments. Like the reformer, exercises can be done, lying down, standing, kneeling, or sitting. The additional framing allows the user to hang from it using their own body weight or the attachments and springs. It is my favorite piece of equipment because it can be the easiest for beginners and the most challenging for advanced students with such an extensive range of exercises.

The chair is a smaller piece of equipment that is wonderful for challenging the user in stability and strength, especially in the legs. We do use it for upper body exercises as well. It might look small and harmless but this apparatus gives a tough workout when you want it to.

The high barrel is nice for a lot of stretching based exercises and good core work. There are a variety of barrels, with the spine corrector being the most popular. Both the high barrel and spine corrector are available in the studio.