Introduction to 
The Pilates Method
The Pilates Method of the exercise was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. It was originally used as a rehabilitation program for prisoners of war and was later found to be of great benefit to anyone seeking a higher level of fitness. The work was kept alive over the years by a small group of Pilates' devoted students until its popularity blossomed in the past couple of decades. Exercise science caught up with the principles that Pilates had been teaching all along, and now you can enjoy the rich evolution of the Pilates work available today.10 Principles of Pilates
- Awareness
- Breath
- Balance
- Concentration
- Control
- Center
- Efficiency
- Flow
- Precision
- Harmony
Block System
At NYSY, we mainly follow the International BASI Pilates method that offers a complete body-workout with a unique, accurate and dynamic flow. It is called BLOCK SYSTEM and designed by Rael Isacowitz. It employs all parts of the body, starting with warmth, foot exercises, abdominal, hip, spine, stretching exercises and includes exercises for the hands, side, chest opening, etc. offering a truly complete exercise in each session.
- Warm-up
- Footwork
- Abdominals
- Hip Work (strap work)
- Spinal Articulation
- Full Body Integration 1
- Arm Work
- Full Body Integration 2
- Additional Leg Work
- Lateral Flexion/Rotation
- Back Extension
Classes & Levels
A necessary introduction for beginners, this seminar interests everyone involved in Pilates. It covers the basic history and philosophy of Pilates, and demonstrates with practical exercises how the fundamental principles work. It will also help you determine the right Pilates session for your needs.
A physical therapist assesses your posture and body condition and offers you advice on the best type of exercise for your needs.
These classes take you step by step through the process of Pilates. Exercises are taught based on the fundamental principles so that you may feel them in your body: Breath, Concentration, Core, Precision, Alignment, Centering, etc.
The classical repertoire of mat exercises is done on the floor and includes core strengthening, stabilization of pelvis and spine, and toning of arms, legs, and buns. The level is dynamic.
Ball exercises teach balance and stability, while toning the leg muscles and the glutes. They are fun, popular, and challenging.
A complete line of equipment was designed by Pilates to support the body in correct alignment and increase strength through resistance according to the needs of each body. Ideal for toning, building stamina, and strengthening, equipment is also used for rehabilitation from trauma or injury (of shoulders, back, lower back, hips, knees, and ankles).
About Joseph H. Pilates
Joseph H. Pilates (1881-1967) was a German-born man of Greek descent who came to New York in the '30s and developed his method working initially with dancers, helping and influencing famous artists like Martha Graham. Pilates studied yoga, Zen meditation, martial arts, and ancient fitness forms and had a background in gymnastics, diving, and boxing. His interest in physical fitness stemmed from a determination to strengthen his own body and improve his health after a sickly childhood. Thus he devised a set of exercises that worked mind and muscles in harmony.
Famous Pilates Quotes
- The mind, when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power.
- In ten sessions you will feel the difference, in twenty you will see the difference, and in thirty you will have a brand new sense of your body.
- The mind, when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power.
- When all your muscles are properly developed, you will, as a matter of course, perform your work with minimum effort and maximum pleasure.
- Contrology (his definition of Pilates) develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.
- Patience and Persistence are vital qualities in the ultimate successful accomplishment of any worthwhile endeavor.
