“Change happens through movement, and movement heals.”
- Joseph H. Pilates

Pilates is a system of over 500 physical fitness exercises developed by Joseph Hubertus Pilates in the early 20th century. Mr. Pilates was a sickly child and developed his system, calling it “Contrology”, for the purpose of achieving a sense of strength and vitality, increased flexibility, and improved posture.

The Principles of Pilates movement include:

Concentration
Control
Centering
Flow
Precision
Breathing

Mr. Pilates taught that simply doing a movement without incorporating the above principles provided limited results and benefits, whereas if the Principles of Pilates movement are honored, fewer repetitions are needed to achieve positive change in the body.

While Pilates is frequently seen as something for dancers, elite athletes, and Hollywood starlets, the truth is that Pilates exercises are for everyone. There is no baseline level of fitness that needs to be achieved before one enters a Pilates studio, and, in fact, the most common reason for attending Pilates classes is to feel strong and confident in everyday life.

Pilates exercises can be done on the mat as well as on specialized equipment that incorporate the concept of resistance, or assistance, in the form of spring tension. At TMS, clients are able to work on the Mat, the Reformer, the Tower, the WundaChair, the Ladder Barrel, the Cadillac, the Ped-O-Pull, the Foot Corrector, and the Arc. Many Pilates exercises can be done on multiple pieces of equipment with varying emphasis and intensity. Exercises are easily modified for physical limitations, making Pilates accessible to every body.

The objectives of a consistent Pilates practice include: increased strength, flexibility, and control of your body and its movement; greater mind-body connection; reduced tension and stress; renewed confidence; and improved mood.