Several principles guide each and every Pilates exercise whether we use Pilates machines or a mat. Joseph Pilates did not mention these, but subsequent instructors have articulated them as a teaching aid. Here are the 6 commonly accepted principles – concentration, control, center (your core), fluidity (some say flow or efficiency of movement), precision, and breathing. I also describe […]

Bob has been honored to be a student of Mary and a long-time friend. This is the first of a many-part interview held at Mary’s Northampton, MA residence in the fall of 2016. The interview first appeared on PilatesIntel.com in early January of 2017. Mary Bowen Mary is one of only 2 active Pilates Elders. […]

This area of the body is particularly challenging to understand and work with both as a student and a teacher – the deep muscles at the base of, and inside of, your pelvis. Here, one of our better Pilates instructors puts an end to the mystery, describing clearly, simply and briefly (the way we like […]

So what’s all the buzz about Pilates (puh-LAH-teez)? What is it? And what can it do for you? Quite simply it’s a unique exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates, the Einstein of fitness, nearly 100 years ago. Now it’s one of the most popular workouts worldwide. It’s so effective that elite athletes use it and physical […]

I’ve always been intrigued by the effectiveness of Pilates for relieving back and joint pain. Nearly every physical therapist prescribes Pilates for back injury. My interest is also very personal, because Pilates saved me from back surgery. Decades ago I seriously injured my back at work. I faced surgery and who-knows how much pain medication. […]

Muscles of the ‘Pelvic Floor’ are Not Core Muscles But Just As Important! This area of the body is particularly challenging to understand and work with both as a student and a teacher – the deep muscles at the base of, and inside of, your pelvis. Here, one of our better Pilates instructors puts an […]