Body Control Pilates is very closely based upon the method of body conditioning and training developed by the late Joseph Pilates.

Joseph Pilates was born in 1880 in Germany. A frail child, who turned to physical fitness to improve his body, becoming a keen sportsman and developing talents in a variety of sports. He studied many different disciplines and, drawing from each of them, formulated a system that worked for his own body. This became known as the Pilates Method. After moving to New York in the 1920's, his studio soon attracted the city's 'elite', with actors, dancers and athletes finding that his exercises perfected and complemented their traditional program and catered for their individual needs; building strength without   adding bulk, balancing that strength with flexibility and achieving perfect harmony between mind and body.

"In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference and in 30 you'll have a new body" - Joseph Pilates

The Body Control Pilates Association was set up in 1996 with the goal of bringing the benefits of Pilates to all. Its founders, Lynne Robinson and Gordon Thompson, have been at the forefront of the boom in awareness of, and participation in, the Pilates Method. Body Control Pilates enjoys an excellent reputation with regard to the effectiveness and the quality of it's teaching. Key reasons for this are;

Code of Practice
Body Control Pilates Association teachers work to a code of practice that governs teaching standards and professional ethics and ensures continuation of professional development. All Body Control Pilates Association teachers must hold up to date insurance. Teachers are also members of the Register of Exercise Professionals.

Access to latest research
The Body Control Pilates teachers have access to the latest research findings in areas such as core stability, muscle balance, osteoporosis and the pelvic floor. This is reflected in our teaching program.

Pilates works by targeting the deep postural muscles of the body, rebalancing muscle groups therefore bringing the body into correct alignment. This restores natural movement, allowing the body to function more efficiently. Pilates balances strength with flexibility and increases stamina and co-ordination. It's slow controlled approach results in much longer term benefit and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Pilates attracts many leading figures from the worlds of the performing arts and top sports. It is used by, amongst others, members of the New Zealand All Blacks and England rugby union squads, members of the England and New Zealand cricket teams, elite rowers and tennis players from all over the world.

Pilates is being used increasingly to compliment the work of physiotherapists and osteopaths and is now more accessible than at any time in its history.