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The Pilates Apparatus
“I invented all these machines. Began back in Germany, was there until 1925, used to exercise rheumatic patients. I thought, why use my strength? So I made a machine to do it for me. Look, you see it resists your movements in just the right way so those inner muscles really have to work against it. That way you can concentrate on movement.”
~Joseph H. Pilates
The system developed by Joseph Pilates includes the use of very unique apparatus that he designed to optimize his technique and to be
used in conjunction with the mat work. The apparatus utilize straps, springs and supports, creating resistance with the body’s weight to massage, align, stretch, and strengthen muscles. The apparatus can be adjusted to best suit each individual and helps you to find and develop your Powerhouse by working with you, like your own muscles (not for you, like a machine). Because of the remarkable nature of this apparatus to both challenge and support the body as it learns to move more efficiently, the inimitably designed pieces truly act as a complement to the difficulty of the matwork exercises.
Our studio is proud to be fully-equipped with the finest quality Pilates apparatus available in the industry, crafted by Gratz Industries. As the original builder and manufacturer of the various apparatus that Joseph Pilates designed decades ago, Gratz Industries carries on its long-standing tradition of superior workmanship and strict adherence to Joe’s original plans and proportions. The use of equipment meeting Joseph Pilates’ exacting specifications is directly related to the ability to perform the exercises correctly and to achieving the full benefits of his method.
Joseph Pilates trusted Gratz to ensure the integrity of his Method, and that is exactly what they have done for over fifty years by crafting nothing but the most authentic apparatus available. While others have attempted to copy their equipment, no one has been able to replicate the superior performance of their products. Fitness trends come and go, but the authentic designs and attention to detail means that Gratz equipment will remain as timeless as the exercises.
As first generation teacher Romana Kryzanowska has said: “Gratz is an undeniable part of Pilates history, having built Universal Reformers to Joseph Pilates’ rigorous specifications, but it’s an even more essential part of this exercise method’s future. No other Pilates apparatus feels as good, lasts as long, or preserves the Pilates Method as safely and authentically as Gratz. The difference is clear with the first workout.”
The Pilates apparatus includes:
- Universal Reformer
- Cadillac (trapeze table)
- Wunda Chair
- High Chair (electric chair)
- Arm Chair (baby chair)
- Ladder Barrel (large barrel)
- Spine Corrector
- Small Barrel
- Guillotine Tower
- Pedi-pole
- Foot Corrector
- Neck Stretcher
- Toe Exerciser
- Breath-a-cizer
- Bean Bag Roll-Up Device
- Push-Up Device
- Magic Circle
- Arm Weights