Originally called Contrology, Pilates is a spring-based style of exercise invented by its namesake, Joseph Pilates, in the early 20th century. Joseph developed his method during his four years at Knockaloe Internment Camp during World War One, working on fellow internees in the medical unit to practice his ideas. He quite literally took the springs off the hospital beds in the interment camp to allow movement and muscle strengthening to those that were bedridden. Pilates’ idea of using springs to facilitate muscle strengthening is the source of the now widely-used Pilates reformer.

Joseph Pilates believed that physical and mental health were deeply related. His emphasis on breathing, mind-body connection, controlled movements, and core strength are still the defining principles of modern Pilates.

He believed, “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.”