First published in 1934, this new reprint of Your Health includes Joseph Pilates' early Twentieth Century philosophies, principles, and theories about health and fitness. He bases his work on the concept of a balanced body and mind, drawing on the approach espoused by the early Greeks. While some of his personal philosophies reflected early 20th Century viewpoints, his athletic and fitness doctrines were years ahead of his time. Readers will learn his observations and conclusions about people's approach to physical fitness. He describes the results of decades of scientific study, experimentation and research into the variety of troubles and ills that upset the balance of body and mind. Pilates makes extraordinary claims about the benefits of his defined science of Contrology and very specifically defines this science for all to read and understand. In this book, he exemplifies and clarifies the beneficial impact of his work.
This dude would've fit right in with the rest of the Amazon self-publishing experts out there. This drawn out treatise against the "modern" (...) lifestyle proved of little value. I'm on board for Contrology, but not the rest.
Inspiring read for fellow instructors of Pilates. Joseph was a true Humanist. His language is dated but that adds to the fun of reading it through the lens of 1934 society. With his railing against “modern” health solutions, I would be very curious to know his feelings the today of today’s common man.
I’m embarrassed it took me so long to finish this book. I wanted to slam my head into the wall for a good 98% of this. It’s such a short book but trying to a) understand b) relate and c) sympathise with him, took more out of me than expected. I love pilates (the exercises) but my word, this wasn’t what I was expecting it to be.