What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of physical and mental conditioning. A method is a means used to attain an end-the conditioning of the mind and body into a fused state of readiness. Developed by Joseph Hubertus Pilates, he originally called his method contrology-the complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.
"Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure."

Return to Life Through Contrology by Joseph H. Pilates and William John Miller

Basic Theory
There are 6 basic principles which Pilates employed in his method to coordinate mind and body:
1. Concentration: Focusing on ever part of the body is required while performing each exercise. The position of any given body part affects and is influenced by all the others. Total body proprioception is increased with concentration.
2. Control: Concentration is combined with control to assist the client in gaining control over his/her entire body while performing the exercises. The Pilates method teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy.
3. Centering: The center is considered the abdomen, extending from the base of the ribs to the top of the pelvis. This is referred to as the "powerhouse of anatomy". The center is often used as the focal point for the Pilates exercises because it's use leads to a better posture. As centering supports the torso, it increases control and grace and provides stability for easier movements if the extremities.
4. Flowing movement: Most of the Pilates exercises include a series of movement patterns, with multiple changes in direction and use of more than one joint at a time. The exercise should not be performed with stiffness or jerkiness, thus also aiding to increase control.
5. Precision: Working with precision helps increase control of the movements and avoiding haphazard motions decrease the risk of injury.
6. Breathing: Pilates believed that complete exhalation would facilitate a full inhalation, and thus, would increase the oxygen supply to all the cells of the body and increase waste removal.

The Clinical Utilization of the Pilates Method in Physical Therapy Practice. Jack D. Close, MA, PT, FAPTA, DMS

Pilates and Phyical Therapy
The focus of the Pilates method is on strengthening muscles without increasing muscle bulk. The emphasis is on multi-joint movement with control and support throughout the truck. At Peter A. Towne Physical Therapy, pilates exercises are used as an adjunct to a strengthening and stretching program tailored to the individual need of the patient.