What is Contrology?

Pilates is Contrology

So what exactly is Pilates?

Originally known as the “Art of Contrology,” the Pilates Method is a set of movement exercises devised by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. Using his unique equipment, these exercises aim to stretch, strengthen, and stabilize the body. Emphasizing the core postural muscles, Pilates plays a crucial role in maintaining body balance and supporting the spine. Each Pilates exercise engages the entire body, promoting strength, flexibility, and body control.

"Contrology develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.” - Joseph Pilates

Mr. Pilates called it Contrology

In the literal sense Contrology is the mastery of your mind over the complete control of your body. In his book Return to Life, Pilates stated that Contrology means to be “kinesiologically proper, physiologically sound and psychologically correct”. His work was intended to develop not only the muscles of the body, limbs, vital organs and endocrine glands; it also clarifies the mind and develops the will through concentration, centering and control. Mr. Pilates boasted Contrology as a way to restore physical fitness to our sedentary lifestyle so that we can enjoy more out of life. It is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.

What makes practicing Pilates different?

When practicing Pilates, the emphasis is on achieving balanced development of the body and correcting ingrained, incorrect movement habits. Through Contrology, we train ourselves to command our body to perform tasks we may have believed impossible or forgotten how to do. This is why Contrology is beneficial for revitalizing brain function. It starts with mental control over muscle movements. Pilates asserted that our bodies should respond to our commands. He argued that Contrology "revives inactive muscle cells, which in turn reactivates dormant brain cells." As a result, the cultivation of muscles contributes to brain enhancement.

Why should I choose Anointed Hands for learning Pilates?

At Anointed Hands, you will receive the attention and results you want from personalized training.

• I am comprehensively trained on all apparatus through one of the most recognized programs in the world, The Pilates Center.

• I am currently enrolled in the Somaphyx Pro-Mentorship program with 3rd generation teacher, Danica Kalemdaroglu. Even teachers need teachers!

• I have been providing therapeutic massage since 2007.

Utilizing my background as a licensed massage therapist, teaching Pilates enables me to assist clients in alleviating pain, enhancing strength, flexibility, and body awareness. The combination of massage therapy and Pilates helps in re-educating the body and mind's response to pain. Consistent practice and self-care will lead to improved appearance, well-being, and functionality. Private, Semi-Private and Small Group sessions are available using a variety of equipment such as the reformer, mat, tower, barrels, and chair. For further information, feel free to contact me for a Pilates Discovery call.