Authentic Method
Joseph Pilates legacy
Unlike contemporary or reformer Pilates, the Authentic Method focuses heavily on breath and a rigorous, structured order of movements for long-term alignment and strength, the way Joseph Pilates intended.
Born in Germany in 1883, Joseph was a pioneering movement educator whose work continues to shape the way people strengthen, rehabilitate, and care for their bodies today. His Contrology method is a system of exercises designed to create balanced strength, flexibility, control and a deeper connection between body and mind.
After moving to New York in the 1920s, Joseph and his wife Clara opened a studio where dancers, athletes, and those recovering from injury embraced his innovative approach to movement, with designer apparatus that remains central to Authentic Pilates practice today.
A timeless approach to movement
Pilates is equally as relevant today due to its timeless focus on quality of movement. Long before concepts such as core strength, posture, functional fitness, and mind-body connection became widely recognised, Joseph Pilates was teaching them.
Authentic Pilates remains true to his original vision: helping clients to move better, feel stronger, and build lasting foundations for health, confidence and wellbeing.