History of Modern Pilates

Pilates was commercially introduced into UK in the late 1990's. Its overall appeal of a slower more intelligent approach to exercise was welcomed by many and courses to teach the method began to appear. Whilst there were courses available, there were none running outside the London area.

Modern Pilates has been developed over the last six years by Cherry Baker, Christopher Norris and Northern Fitness and Education. Leading physiotherapist Christopher Norris Msc, MCSP has designed the theoretical sections of the course and worked with the rest of the team in creating not only a programme of exercise but an educationally sound training programme that will help students develop their careers and knowledge withing the fitness industry and beyond.

It is literally a 'modern approach' to Pilates and the principles are based on up to date research from the world of physiotherapy and other holistic forms of exercise. The programme is designed to develop balance throughout the body and build strong stable muscles that are also flexible and correctly aligned. The aim of Modern Pilates is to teach clients how to use these methods in their life both at work and play. Many clients attend classes not only because of the physical benefits but also for the relaxation and mental focus that each session is designed to provide.

The essence of the programme is on precision, not repetition or momentum. It addresses trunk stability, shoulder girdle stabilisation, maintenance of neutral alignment and form of the spine along with correct muscle recruitment.

We believe that each client deserves individual attention and so each class and each individual exercise has been planned with the health and wellbeing of each class member in mind. For this reason we encourage class number to be limited and for the same reason we keep course number limited also.

Whilst Joseph Pilates proved himself to be a genius, many of his exercises would be classed as controversial in light of todays sports science. He wrote several books on fitness but many of these are now difficult to get hold of, but he himself does describe many of his exercises as being 'advanced'. This was mainly due to the type of clientele he was working with at the time having moved on from injured soldiers to professional dancers, athletes and gymnasts.