What is Pilates?

The history, principles and why the training works

The history of Pilates

Pilates was developed over 100 years ago and is still one of the most effective ways to strengthen the body and improve posture. It combines strength, flexibility and control in a way that produces results for everyone.

joseph pilates - the man behind the method

Pilates is named after Joseph Pilates (1883-1967), who developed the exercise form in the early 1900s. As a young man, he experienced various health challenges that motivated him to create a method that could strengthen the body from within and create balance between mind and body.

During the First World War, he worked to train war veterans in rehabilitation using, among other things, beds with springs as aids - an idea that later developed into the equipment machines we know today as reformer and tower.

In the 1920s, Joseph moved to New York, where he opened the first studio with his wife Clara. The method was then called Contrology and became particularly popular with dancers and athletes who found that the training both prevented injury and improved performance. His students included Romana Kryzanowska, Eve Gentry and Kathy Grant, who continued the method and made it known worldwide.

Joseph himself never lived to see the enormous spread of the method after his death in 1967. Today, Pilates is practised globally - both on mat and equipment - because the principles of control, precision and conscious movement are timeless and relevant to anyone who wants a stronger, more balanced body.

why classical pilates?

Rooted in tradition complemented by today's knowledge

Our teaching is based on the classic Pilates method developed by Joseph Pilates. The method is systematic, built in a clear progression and has produced results for more than 100 years.

At the same time, we benefit from the knowledge that contemporary Pilates has contributed, for example from physiotherapy and biomechanics. The foundation is classic, but we let contemporary knowledge complement it to make the training relevant, safe and effective.

Experience pilates first hand

Pilates is best understood when you feel the effect yourself. At Pilates Søborg you can book a trial session and experience how classical Pilates can strengthen the body, improve posture and give you new energy in everyday life.

[Book a trial lesson here]

Pilates today

Although it was developed over 100 years ago, Pilates is more relevant than ever. It strengthens the body from the inside, improves posture and increases body awareness.

Pilates is not only about getting stronger, but also about moving with control and precision. That's why it's a form of exercise that can both challenge and support you - with results you can feel in your everyday life.

Want to know more?

If you want to dive deeper into Pilates, we recommend

Return to Life Through Contrology - Joseph Pilates' own book.

Caged Lion by John Howard Steel - a vivid story about Joseph Pilates and his method.

Pilates Anatomy by Rael Isacowitz & Karen Clippinger - a modern classic on body and technique.

Who can do Pilates?

Pilates is for everyone - regardless of age, experience or starting point

Pilates is a form of exercise that can be adapted to any body. Whether you're a beginner, experienced exerciser, pregnant, senior or top athlete, you can benefit from Pilates.

The exercises work systematically with the whole body and can prevent injuries, alleviate discomfort and develop strength, flexibility and balance.

The method is based on timeless principles: control, precision, breathing, centring, flow and concentration. When these elements are combined, training is both targeted and gentle - with results that can be felt in everyday life as well as in sports and other activities.

Pilates not only strengthens muscles, but also body awareness. You learn to move more efficiently and with better alignment, creating energy and a stronger body you can trust.

pilates søborg offers Among other things.

Class hours - reformer/tower teams with max 7 participants
Private Pilates - One-on-one sessions for those who want customised training
Postnatal Pilates - Use Pilates to get fit after giving birth
Pregnancy pilates - Exercises to support your body's changes during pregnancy
Closed team - Join 2-7 people and book an hour just for you
Pilates for men - Use Pilates as a supplement to your current workout
Senior pilates - Maintain mobility and strength for life