by Natalie I. Kelly

Created on: January 08, 2011   Last Updated: March 02, 2011

Whether you are you new to Pilates or an expert, arming yourself with the history and original six principles will take your practice to a deeper level.

During the 1920’s Joseph Pilates developed the exercises for the mat and reformer with the idea of creating a mind, body connection through movement.  He originally called the exercise Contrology, as the philosophy was the mind controlled the strength of the muscles.  At this time Pilates was exclusive, available to few and only in small studios.

In the 1980’s Pilates grew in popularity showing up in fitness centers, healthcare facilities, in books, and home workout videos.  Taking Pilates out of exclusive studios and to the public can be attributed to Philip Friedman and Gail Eisen, two students of Romana Kryzanowska (a first generation teacher trained by Joseph Pilate).  They wrote a book outlining the six principles of Pilates, carrying Joseph Pilate’s message to anyone who desired to practice.

The principles still exist today and have been adopted and adapted by the community with varying opinions on the number and meaning.  However, all keep true to the mind and body connection.

The original six Pilates principles as written by Philip Friedman and Gail Eisen are as follows;

1.  Concentration – In order to perform the exercises Pilates requires intense focus on the body and alignment to ensure proper form and use of the muscles.

2.  Control – This was Joseph Pilates preferred name for the exercise routine.  The mind needs to be engaged to control the movement of the body against the resistance of gravity or the equipment. 

3.  Centering - Pilates movements begins from the center or the powerhouse and then flows outward.  The powerhouse is the deep abdominal and back muscles.  It’s important to have a strong and stable center in order for movements to flow.

4.  Flow – The movements are choreographed to be done with rhythm, creating smooth, graceful and functional movements.

5.  Precision – This is an essential principle as Pilates is done with perfect form and precise movement.  Perfecting the exercises comes with practice. It is the end product of concentration, control, and centering.

6.  Breathing – Full inhalation and exhalation increases circulation and oxygenated blood to the body.  Pilates integrates breath into every movement in order to keep our awareness with exercises.  Also, Pilate’s utilizes a posterior lateral approach to breathing.  Because you are keeping your abdominals engaged throughout the exercises the breathing occurs to the side and back of the lungs.

These principles will assist you with your practice and gaining the full benefits.  It doesn’t matter if you practice a classical or contemporary approach; these principles apply to both styles.  So arm yourself with these principles when taking classes or self-practice and enjoy the benefits a Pilates routine has to offer.

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