What Is Contrology?
The Original Pilates Method
Contrology was Joseph Pilates’ name for the method we now call Pilates.
“Contrology is complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.”
— Joseph H. Pilates, Return to Life Through Contrology
The mat exercises and apparatus are part of one system. You practice the same skills across the mat, Reformer, Cadillac, and other apparatus, learning to coordinate your breath and movement while building strength, mobility, and stamina. As your control improves, you build toward more demanding exercises.
Joseph Pilates performing the Rollover on an original studio Mat with attached Spine Corrector
How I Teach Contrology at Lift Pilates
You Learn Your Own Sequence
I choose your starting exercises based on how you move and what you’re working toward. You repeat the sequence so you can get familiar with the exercises and feel how your movement changes. As you build strength, mobility, and control, I add exercises to your program.
The Apparatus Work Together
You might practice a movement on the Reformer, then work on a related skill on the Cadillac or a chair. I choose where you do an exercise based on what helps you feel the movement more clearly or gives you the right challenge.
You Build Independence With Guidance
Over time, you learn the order of your exercises, which springs to use, and how to set up the apparatus. As you become more comfortable moving through your program, I continue to observe, give corrections, and spot you when needed.
“We don’t change the work; the work changes us.”
— Jay Grimes (First-generation teacher & mentor)
Why Practice Contrology Today?
Strength for everyday movement. Build the strength you use to get up from the floor, carry groceries, or climb stairs.
Mobility and balance. Practice reaching, bending, and shifting your weight with more control.
Focus and coordination. Learn to coordinate your breath with your movement and notice where you’re holding tension or using more effort than you need.
Why I Chose Contrology
In 2018, I committed to teaching Contrology at Lift Pilates. What drew me to the original method was how the exercises build on each other. Something you learn on the mat can change how you move on the Reformer, and a skill you develop on the Cadillac can carry back into your matwork.
I also love how energetic the work can become. As you get to know your sequence, you can move with more rhythm and precision. That progression is one of the things I most enjoy teaching.
Experience the Method for Yourself
Both introductory offers begin with a private session with me. We’ll talk about your goals, get you moving on the apparatus, and begin building your program.
Class Intro
$149
One 55-minute private session, followed by an introductory week of small-group Pilates.
Private Intro
$249
Two dedicated one-on-one sessions to begin your individualized Pilates practice.