Accessories

Before his time in maintaining optimal health
This book was an outstanding value for the small amount of money I paid. I never knew Pilates was developed by a man because so very few men ever attend our local YMCA class...anyhows the book is great for someone who wants alot of great info without having to read too much in order to get it...I would recomend this book as well as any other written by the late Joseph Pilates...he was a man well ahead of his time in the pioneering of preventive health!

Ultimate source of the Pilates method
This book and "Return to Life through Contrology" written by Joseph Pilates are the ultimate sources for understanding the philosophy and motivation behind the Pilates method. I think they are a must for people who love and practice Pilates. Not an easy read, but you don't have to understand every expression and word to get the meaning of them. What really comes through from these books is how passionate Joseph Pilates was about his methods and teachings. You will also find that not only he had an extensive and vast knowledge of human biomechanics but also he widely understood physics, biology and was able to make the connections that we just now are coming to understand. He truly was a pioneer and ages (not just years!) ahead of his time. On top of all that he was a brilliant inventor.

Interesting reading
I think that the book gives you some insight as to what kind of a person Joseph Pilates was, and where so many of his exercises stem from.. thinking of that era, and what was available at the time. It's always good to look back to see where we have come from and how we have progressed and changed. It may be a book that I would refer back to, but does not make for "light" reading.

Pilates - Your Health
I have been studying the Pilates Method for about 3 years now. This book along with "Return to Life Through Contrology" has enabled me to more fully understand the Pilates method of exercise. It is not just exercise - it is a way of life. If you are a beginner it would be wise to choose one of the newer books to help you get started but, I would also purchase this book and Return to Life Through Contrology so that you can more fully understand the principals behind the method. I refer to my copies often for information and instruction. These are small, paperback, black and white books...but, they pack a great deal of information into their little package!