The Pilates Elders and Their Legacy
The history of Pilates, from its inception by Joseph Pilates to its current status as a globally recognised fitness and rehabilitation method, is a tale of evolution, innovation, and often, contention. Central to this narrative are the Pilates Elders, a group of Joseph Pilates’ direct disciples. Despite not being formally trained by Joseph Pilates to be 'Pilates Teacher trainers,' these individuals played a pivotal role in the dissemination and diversification of the Pilates method. Their interpretations, variations, and occasional disagreements have contributed to Pilates teaching we see today.
The Pilates Elders: Torchbearers of a Legacy
The term "Pilates Elders" refers to the first generation of teachers trained directly by Joseph Pilates. This group includes notable figures such as Clara Pilates (Joseph’s wife), Lolita San Miguel, Carola Trier, Romana Kryzanowska, Mary Bowen, Ron Fletcher, Kathy Grant, and Eve Gentry. Each of these individuals had a unique relationship with Pilates and his teachings, and each went on to contribute to the method in distinctive ways.
Beyond the Studio: Dissemination and Diversification
Joseph Pilates was an innovator, but he did not establish a formal training program for instructors, much less for those who would train future generations of teachers. This lack of a formalised path led the Pilates Elders to interpret and adapt Pilates’ teachings based on their understanding, experiences, and the needs of their students. As they moved across the United States and the world, they established their studios, each reflecting a unique blend of the core principles they learned from Joseph and their innovations.
Variations and Disagreements Among the Elders
The Elders often varied in their approach to Pilates, leading to different schools of thought within the Pilates community. For example, Ron Fletcher added a dance element to his Pilates teachings, reflecting his background in dance. Romana Kryzanowska emphasised the classical approach, staying as true to Joseph Pilates’ original teachings as possible. Kathy Grant and Carola Trier introduced their variations and adaptations, further diversifying the Pilates method.
These differences sometimes led to disagreements among the Elders and their followers about what constituted "true" Pilates. This divergence was not solely about the exercises themselves but also about the philosophy and approach to teaching Pilates.
The Impact of Copyright and the Diversification of Pilates
Modern designs of Pilates apparatus available since the year 2000
The diversification of Pilates teaching was further compounded by legal battles over the use of the name "Pilates." In a landmark case in 2000, the term "Pilates" was ruled to be generic, opening the floodgates for widespread use of the name and further diversification of the method. This legal decision allowed for the proliferation of Pilates studios and certification programs, each with its interpretation of Joseph Pilates’ work. Likewise it led to a series of new designs and modifications of Pilates Apparatus which previously had been copies of the apparatus that Joseph Pilates had patented in the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s.
The Elders' Legacy
Despite their differences, the Pilates Elders were united in their commitment to sharing the benefits of Pilates with the world. They laid the groundwork for the contemporary Pilates movement, ensuring the method's survival and continued evolution. Today, the influence of the Pilates Elders is felt in the multitude of Pilates styles practiced around the globe. Their legacies live on in the studios they founded, the instructors they trained, and the students who continue to practice Pilates in its many forms.
The students that the Elders trained to become Instructors are known as Second Generation Instructors and likewise those that the second Generation Instructor trainers teach are sometimes referred to as Third Generation. For some in Pilates this is very important for others not at all.
Take Away
The story of the Pilates Elders is a testament to the enduring power of Joseph Pilates’ vision. It is also a reminder of the dynamism inherent in the Pilates method, a system that encourages adaptation and innovation while maintaining a core philosophy of mind-body integration. The Elders’ varied interpretations and teachings have enriched the Pilates Industry, offering practitioners a wealth of options to explore and benefit from. As Pilates continues to evolve, the contributions of the Pilates Elders become increasingly diluted whilst new entrants from different backgrounds ensure that the method remains as diverse and vibrant as the community it serves.
Author: Chris Onslow - Pilates Consultant
Chris Onslow, has run Pilates focussed businesses since 1998. He and his team specialise in supporting Pilates entrepreneurs and business owners. With a rich history of owning and running successful Pilates studios in the UK, and supporting others in Europe and the Middle East, Chris has broad expertise in maximising profitability and optimising operational efficiency. His agency provides top-tier advice on selecting new, pre-owned, and hireable Pilates equipment from renowned brands such as Align-Pilates, Balanced Body or Stott-Pilates/Merrithew. As the founder of Mbodies Training Academy, Chris continues to revolutionise Pilates education, offering premier online and hybrid CPD and qualification courses for Pilates apparatus instruction and special population CPD. Discover more about how Chris can support your Pilates Business or home exercise choices at www.pilates-consultant.co.uk