When Joseph Pilates developed his method — which he called Contrology — he didn’t formally outline “Six Principles.” Those were codified later by his students. But his writings in Return to Life Through Contrology (1945) and Your Health (1934) are full of memorable sayings that capture the essence of each principle.
Here’s how Joe’s own words still guide us today in class:
1. Concentration
“Concentrate on the correct movement each time you exercise, lest you do them improperly and thus lose all the vital benefits.”
Pilates isn’t about going through the motions — it’s about moving with complete mental focus.
2. Control
“Contrology is complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.”
The entire method was built on the idea of control — of your muscles, your posture, and your mind.
3. Centering
Joe often spoke of the “powerhouse” — the deep abdominal and spinal muscles that give strength and stability.
“A body freed from nervous tension and over-fatigue is the ideal shelter provided by nature for housing a well-balanced mind.”
All strength begins at the center.
4. Precision
“Correctly executed and mastered to the point of subconscious reaction, these exercises will reflect grace and balance in your routine activities.”
Every detail matters in Pilates — precise movement builds lasting strength and grace.
5. Breath
“Above all, learn how to breathe correctly.”
“Squeeze every atom of air from your lungs until they are almost as free of air as is a vacuum.”
Breath fuels movement, energises the body, and clears the mind.
6. Flow
Joe spoke often of “grace of movement” and the natural rhythm of the body.
Pilates sequences are designed to flow smoothly from one exercise to the next — like a moving meditation.
Bringing the Principles to Life in Warminster
At Genki Pilates, our classes in Warminster bring these timeless principles into every session — whether you’re a beginner or experienced mover. By combining concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow, you’ll feel stronger, more flexible, and more balanced in both body and mind.
Why not come and experience the principles of Pilates in action?
📍 Join us in Warminster
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Group mat classes
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1-to-1 sessions tailored to your needs
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Friendly, welcoming studio environment
Book your space today and discover why Joe called his method Return to Life.
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