“Breathing is the first act of life and the last. Our very life depends on it.” — Joseph Pilates
Joseph Pilates called his original system Contrology. Within it, breathing was not simply a support tool or a reminder between exercises—it was part of the movement itself.
Pilates considered proper breathing the most important of all physical functions. He taught that full breathing helped cleanse the body, fuel the muscles and support whole-body health.In practice, breath gives rhythm to the Hundred, supports sequencing through the Roll Up, encourages expansion in Swan and helps coordinate effort during Footwork.
The breath principle also works alongside concentration, control, centering, precision and flow—helping us move with greater purpose and awareness
Joseph Pilates wrote:“Above all, learn how to breathe correctly.”Breathe fully. Breathe purposefully. Let the breath move with you.