Pilates' Return to Life Through Contrology

Synopsis

First published in 1945, Pilates Return to Life Through Contrology contains the authorised, legal, edited, and original Library of Congress version of Joseph H. Pilates and William J. Millers first complete fitness writings. It details the exercises, poses, and instructions fundamental to the matwork developed by Joseph and Clara Pilates. Based on his concepts of a balanced body and mind, and drawn from the approach espoused by the early Greeks, these are the exercises that continue to sustain a world-wide revolution in fitness strategies and exercise techniques. Joseph Pilates has been nothing short of revolutionary in his impact on the world of fitness and exercise. Readers will learn and view the original 34 exercises that Pilates taught to his students, many of whom have become exercise gurus in their own right. These carefully designed exercises constitute the results of decades of scientific study and research into the variety of physical ills that upset the balance of body and mind. Practitioners of Pilates forms and exercises in the 21st century continue to expand upon this earlier work by presenting a variety of creative new approaches involving circular movements, standing postures, and core strengthening exercises using props such as tubes, weights, poles, bands, magic circles, mini-balls, stability balls, foam rollers, and more. Now included in this Revised Edition are 18 additional pages of explanations of what has transpired since the original 1945 work, along with several photo/text sequences of the latest 21st-century enhancements in the Pilates world. There are new descriptive pages of text that first describe the fitness principles evolved from Pilates original Contrology work. This is followed by detailed text describing 21st-century evolutionary developments that present the key dancers, choreographers, and leaders in the Pilates Studio and certifying organisations through the present. This section ends with a discussion of evolutionary props and apparatus developments, plus 21st-century sample exercises drawn from the larger book, "Pilates Evolution for the 21st Century". Following this section are three complete prop-based demonstration exercises that include both photographic sequences (four per exercise) and step-by-step instructions for 21st-century Pilates exercises using the magic circle, elastic resistance, and the small fitness mini-ball.

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Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction
In this chapter, Joseph Pilates gives an overview of his philosophy and approach to physical fitness, which he calls "Contrology." He explains that Contrology is not just a form of exercise, but a way of life that creates balance and harmony in the mind and body. Pilates also emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection and the power of the mind to control the body.

Real Example: Aerial Yoga
Aerial yoga is a modern form of exercise that combines traditional yoga poses with aerial silks. Similar to Pilates, it focuses on building a strong mind-body connection and using mental control to perfect physical movements. Aerial yoga practitioners must use their core strength and mind-body coordination to perform poses while hanging from the silk hammock. This is similar to how Joseph Pilates believed in using the mind to control the body in his Contrology approach.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Physical Fitness
In this chapter, Pilates stresses the importance of physical fitness and its impact on overall health and well-being. He explains that physical fitness is not just about having strong muscles, but also a strong and healthy heart and lungs. Pilates also discusses the concept of "core strength" and how it is essential for overall fitness and posture.

Real Example: CrossFit
CrossFit is a popular fitness program that combines various high-intensity movements such as weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio. The focus of CrossFit is on functional fitness and building overall physical strength and endurance. The program includes exercises that target the core muscles, as well as the heart and lungs, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded approach to physical fitness, similar to Pilates' principles.

Chapter 3: The Fundamentals of Contrology
In this chapter, Pilates outlines the basic principles of Contrology, including concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow. He explains how these principles work together to create a balanced and efficient body that is capable of performing daily activities with ease and grace.

Real Example: Barre
Barre is a popular exercise program that combines elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga. One of the main principles of Barre is alignment, which focuses on proper posture and strengthening the core muscles to support the body's alignment. This is similar to the centering and precision principles of Pilates' Contrology, as both approaches emphasize the importance of a strong core for overall body strength and control.

Chapter 4: The Pilates Matwork Exercises
This chapter introduces the reader to the various mat exercises that make up the core of the Pilates method. Pilates provides detailed instructions for each exercise, emphasizing the importance of proper form and control.

Real Example: Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body practice that involves a series of poses and movements intended to strengthen the body and calm the mind. Many of the mat exercises in Pilates' Contrology approach have similarities to yoga poses, such as the Hundred being similar to the Hundred breath in yoga. Both practices focus on proper alignment, control, and breath.

Chapter 5: Advanced Exercises and Specialized Equipment
In this chapter, Pilates introduces advanced exercises that can be done with specialized equipment, such as the reformer, cadillac, and barrels. He explains how the equipment can provide resistance and support, allowing for more challenging and effective workouts.

Real Example: TRX
TRX is a form of suspension training where the practitioner uses body weight and gravity to perform various exercises. The straps and handles of the TRX function similarly to the equipment used in Pilates, providing resistance and support to create a challenging workout. Both approaches focus on controlled movements and proper form to maximize the benefits of each exercise.

Chapter 6: Contrology and Its Benefits
In this final chapter, Pilates discusses the numerous benefits of his Contrology method, including improved physical strength, flexibility, posture, and mental focus. He also emphasizes the importance of incorporating Contrology into one's daily life to achieve a higher state of mind-body balance and overall well-being.

Real Example: Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment and being fully aware of one's thoughts and surroundings. This is similar to the mind-body connection and concentration principles of Pilates' Contrology. Both practices also aim to create a sense of balance and harmony in the mind and body, leading to overall improved physical and mental well-being.

Conclusion
Pilates' "Return to Life Through Contrology" provides a holistic approach to physical fitness and well-being by emphasizing the mind-body connection and the importance of a balanced and controlled body. His principles and exercises continue to be relevant today and can be seen in various modern forms of exercise such as yoga, barre, and suspension training. By incorporating the Contrology principles into daily life, one can achieve improved physical strength, flexibility, and mental focus for a healthier and happier lifestyle.