Pilates' Return to Life Through Contrology

by Joseph Pilates, Judd Robbins

First published in 1945, Pilates’ Return to Life Through Contrology contains the authorized, legal, edited, and original Library of Congress version of Joseph H. Pilates and William J. Miller first complete fitness writings. It details the exercises, poses, and instructions fundamental to the matwork developed by Joseph and Clara Pilates. Based on his concepts of a balanced body and mind and drawn from the approach espoused by the early Greeks, these are the exercises that currently sustain a worldwide revolution in fitness strategies and exercise techniques. Readers will learn and view the original 34 exercises that Pilates taught to his students, many of whom have become exercise gurus in their own right. These carefully designed exercises are the result of decades of scientific study, experimentation and research into the variety of physical ills that upset the balance of body and mind. In this book, readers will learn the exercises that Joseph Pilates recommended to accompany his basic advice regarding posture, body mechanics, correct breathing, spinal flexibility, and physical education.

Genres: Nonfiction

98 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 29, 2011

Reviews

[N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great!

I've recently started Pilates. My instructor frequently references quotes from Joseph Pilate and this book. I enjoyed reading his views and will attempt to use his theories to help me through my journey to a healthier, stronger me!

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn to read this book when I discovered what Joseph Pilates' inspiration was for Contrology: cats.

What he wrote in the chapters preceding the list of exercises was especially moving. I will be purchasing a copy for myself to keep.

I strongly recommend this to anyone desiring a deeper knowledge of the mind-body exercise methodology passed on from the founder himself.

[Bree McDonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredibly insightful!

[Elizabeth Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great book, poor Kindle version

I love the content. It is an easy read and very informational. Most of the pages in the Kindle version are well organized, but there is a handful of pages were the words are a mess and its very difficult the read the words.

[Marcos d Ornellas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well documented exercises. A bit outdated but the book really helps on perfecting your movements.

[Deirdre · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy read but somewhat difficult aspirational exercises. I’m hoping having read this will restart my love with Pilates (and yoga) and actually help to keep my momentum.

[Duchess_Nimue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful work! Pilates has written it as a handbook with all his exercises and description on how to do them. The intro was interesting and insightful, and the exercises challenging.

[Alexandra · Rating 2 out of 5]

As someone who has done pilates for years I'm a little confused - there's no mention of deep TVA engagement, lots of the exercise descriptions seem to be fine with momentum.

Not exactly what I was hoping to find.

[Charlie Fla'Herty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is classic. I really enjoy reading this aloud too; especially to my young children ('if the child comes home sick put it in a bath and then to bed, then send it back out to play'). It is insightful and truly core material.