WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF PILATES
PILATES, MOVEMENT FOR LIFE!
Pilates helps thousands of people every day to move
better, feel better and perform at their best. This wonderful
exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates strengthens
muscles, develops flexibility, increases coordination and
improves health and well being.
PILATES, MIND BODY EXERCISE
Pilates focuses on engaging the mind and body to create
exercises that stimulate not just our physical bodies, but
our mind and spirit as well. Every exercise is performed with
attention to the breath, proper form, correct alignment and
balanced muscle control in order to decrease pain, increase
vitality and optimize physical performance.
Pilates is used in fitness centers, private studios,
rehabilitation clinics and at home to improve the health
and well being of everyone from the recently injured, to
the super fit. As more and more people participate, Pilates
continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of anyone
wanting to improve their ability to move with strength, ease
and grace.
BALANCED BODY, GROWING PILATES FOR
OVER 30 YEARS
Balanced Body is the largest designer and manufacturer of
professional Pilates equipment in the world. Ken Endelman,
the founder and CEO, is constantly inspired by his work
with Pilates professionals from over 100 countries. He uses
this inspiration to design and develop the finest Pilates
equipment, and to help grow the Pilates community
through education, advertising and continued support.
The education division of Balanced Body is committed
to providing training and support for home users, new
teachers and professionals through manuals, DVDs, Pilates
teacher training programs and continuing education.
If you want to learn more about Pilates products, instructor
training, or to find a Pilates professional near you,
visit pilates.com.
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This manual contains a wealth of information about the
Pilates method, principles of good movement and Pilates
Arc and Step Barrel exercises. You can use it to deepen
your own understanding of Pilates or as an additional
resource if you are already a Pilates instructor or enrolled
in a Pilates instructor training program. The exercises
are organized as if you were doing a Pilates Mat workout
on the Pilates Arc. If you are new to Pilates, start with
the beginning level exercises and programs until you get
comfortable with them, before advancing. If you have any
specific issues, please consult a medical professional or
an experienced Pilates instructor before attempting any of
these exercises.
This manual grew out of the more than 60 years combined
teaching experience of the Pilates Arc development team.
It includes a selection of both classical and contemporary
exercises including many new moves developed just for the
Pilates Arc. The original Pilates exercises were passed on
to us through the Pilates elders and master teachers Eve
Gentry, Michele Larsson, Carola Trier, Romana Kryzanowska,
Kathleen Stanford Grant, Ron Fletcher, Elizabeth Larkam,
Jean-Claude West and many others. We are grateful for
everything they have given us.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to
contact Balanced Body at [email protected].
I hope this manual provides you with both information and
inspiration on your Pilates path.
Happy practicing!
Nora St. John
Education Program Director
Balanced Body
