Pilates History is Cool
I was having a good chat with a client about a book written by one of Joseph Pilates clients, John Steel. What we both loved was the context given to what was happening around Pilates (Contrology back then) during the 50’s and 60’s.
As someone who loves history, I’ve spent years researching the background of what makes Pilates, well, Pilates. I even wrote a thesis chapter on it.
So, we’re going to dive deep into a fascinating chapter of movement history that shaped many of the exercise practices we cherish today, including the Pilates method.
It’s honestly worth exploring the remarkable Physical Culture movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here we go!
Understanding Physical Culture
The Physical Culture movement emerged during a time of rapid industrialisation when city people faced unprecedented health challenges. As the cities grew denser and work became more sedentary, pioneering health “reformers” recognised the need for systematic approaches to physical wellness. Their vision extended far beyond simple exercise – it encompassed a complete lifestyle philosophy.
Key Elements of Physical Culture:
Rational Exercise
At the heart of Physical Culture was the concept of "rational exercise" – systematic movement patterns designed to develop the body comprehensively. Unlike the random calisthenics popular at the time, these exercises followed careful progressions and emphasized quality of movement over quantity. Sound familiar? This principle directly influenced Joseph Pilates' development of his method.
The Breathing Revolution
Physical culturists were among the first to emphasise the crucial role of breathing in exercise and health. They developed specific breathing techniques and exercises, understanding that proper respiration was fundamental to vitality. This focus on breath as a cornerstone of movement practice continues in Pilates and many other contemporary methods.
Natural Movement
The movement advocated for exercises that mimicked natural human movements, often using simple equipment or body weight alone. This approach is reflected in Pilates' early apparatus designs, which were created to enhance natural movement patterns rather than isolate muscles.
The German Influence: Körperkultur
In Germany, where Joseph Pilates spent his early years, the Physical Culture movement took on a unique form known as Körperkultur. This movement emphasized:
Connection with nature and natural movement patterns
The importance of sunlight and fresh air
Minimal clothing to allow freedom of movement (yep, nudists for those playing at home)
Integration of mental and physical discipline
These principles profoundly influenced Pilates' approach to movement and health, as evidenced in his early teaching photos and writings. You’ve seen the photos of Joesph Pilates in the snow, right? Exercising in nature and minimal clothing were his thing. And this was way before Wim Hof became cool.
Impact on Modern Practice
The Physical Culture movement's emphasis on systematic training, breath awareness, and mind-body integration created the foundation for many contemporary movement practices. In Pilates specifically, we see this in:
The systematic progression of exercises
The integration of breath with movement
The focus on postural alignment (and normal human variation)
The use of specialised apparatus to enhance natural movement
The emphasis on mental concentration during exercise
Modern Relevance
Today, as we face many of the same challenges that inspired the Physical Culture movement – sedentary lifestyles, poor movement, and disconnection from our bodies – these principles remain remarkably relevant. The movement's holistic approach to health and wellness offers valuable insights for our modern world. We are getting better, but we also need to be aware of dong too much in our fast paced modern lives.
Looking Forward
Understanding the Physical Culture movement helps us appreciate the historical context of our Pilates practice and the enduring wisdom in its principles. As we continue to evolve our movement practices, these foundational ideas remain as relevant as ever.