Discovering Pure Classical Pilates: Theory and Practice as Joseph Pilates Intended

by Peter Fiasca

Discovering Pure Classical Pilates looks deeply into Joseph Pilates' traditional method of mental and physical conditioning by describing its foundations, goals, movement qualities and benefits. Specific attention is given to the ways in which market forces, individual creativity or ambition lead to deterioration and commercialization of the traditional Pilates method. We harken back in time to Joseph Pilates' own two books Your Health (1934) and Return to Life Through Contrology (1945) by exploring social, economic, psychological and spiritual issues associated with his traditional work.

206 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 2009

Reviews

[Ohara · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wanted so much to get something out of this book, but Fiasca is absolutely insufferable. His arrogance is out of control. This entire book is one long rant, full of his opinions, and is a giant put down to anyone in our industry who doesn’t teach or practice Pilates exactly as he would have them do. This book is a turn off, rather than an inspiration. It was almost funny at times, the amount of shade he threw at everyone from Balanced Body, Pilates Style Magazine, the Pilates Method Alliance, oh and to women too for feminizing Pilates! Don’t waste your time reading this, just know that he thinks Pilates is an elite activity for the truly rich (people who can study 3-5 times a week privately w a “Pure Classical Pilates” instructor - holy $$$$) and who are already in great shape. As a Pilates teacher I see everyday how the Pilates method helps every body, and is for all people. Don’t buy into this elitist crap.

[AP]

Author made a great series of classical pilates videos with leading 2nd generation teachers like Bob Liekens and Alycea Ungaro. This book is an extensive treatise on preserving the quality and integrity of pure, classical pilates, as taught by Joseph Pilates to Romana Kryzanowska and Jay Grimes. Romana has trained the largest number of 2nd generation classical pilates teachers, including the author.

This book does not contain any actual exercises. It is mostly a critique of corporate, commercial pilates with instructors and apparatus of questionable quality and safety.