Three people sitting on the reformer Pilates equipment about to do the mermaid stretch exercise.
Preparing to do the mermaid exercise at Pearl Pilates studio.

The Pilates Method

Joseph Pilates created his system of strengthening and stretching exercises in the early twentieth century. Mr. Pilates called his method Contrology and was one of the first proponents of initiating movement from a strong core, which he called the "powerhouse".

What has come to be called Pilates is a system of mat and equipment exercises that are known for strengthening your entire body, healing injuries, and relieving back pain. It's also fun and challenging!

There are over 500 exercises in the Pilates method so there is always something new to learn. At the same time, there are exercises that you will come to recognize as you will do them every time you practice your Pilates workou

Also, observe, too, how cats sleep - utterly relaxed whether they happen to be lying on their back, side or belly. Contrology exercises emphasize the neeed for this constant stretching and relaxing.
— Joseph Pilates, Return to Life Through Contrology

Joseph Pilates first talked about the connection between the "mind body and spirit" in his book Return to Life Through Contrology written in 1945. A phrase that has now become synonymous with mindful and focused exercise modalities including yoga and dance. To find out more about the fascinating history of Joseph Pilates and his groundbreaking work, check out the Wikipedia article on his life and legacy.

Joseph Pilates article on Wikipedia

A woman on the Cadillac Pilates equipment doing the breathing exercise with the trapeze and rollback bar.
Lily is showing the breathing exercise on the Cadillace using the trapeze and rollback bar.

Whether you are just beginning to exercise, trying something new, or recovering from an injury, Pilates will safely help you become stronger.

A woman sits on the reformer preparing to do the reaching exercise.
Jessie prepares to do a modified version of reaching, also called offering, on the refomrer.
A person in a side kneeling position on the reformer Pilates equipment.
Carin doing a contemporary side-kneeling variation on the reformer machine.

Benefits of Purrlates

Learn more about the health benefits of exercising and spending time with cats.

Black and white tuxedo cat laying on a blue exercise mat.
Archie relaxing on his mat after stretches.
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Events

Find out more about our events

People standing behind blue yoga mats mingling with cats.
Getting ready for a Purrlates event at KitTea Cafe!
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More about Pilates

A system of mat and equipment exercises that strengthen your body and mind.

Group of people sitting on equipment at a Pilates studio.
Joseph Pilates also called his method Contrology.
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