London-based pilates and yoga teacher Sally Parkes reviews The Anatomy of Pilates by Paul Massey: a well illustrated, comprehensive new book on the classical method of pilates originally formulated in 1926.
Having been a pilates matwork teacher for seven years I have read a number of books on the
subject. I can honestly say that this is the first book I have come across that g
ives such in-depth explanations along with informative diagrams.
The book is
based of the classical method that Joseph Pilates designed in 1926, then called ‘Contrology'.
Many approaches have now evolved from the classical method shown in this book, but in my opinion this approach remains most physically challenging and thorough approach to pilates there is.
Equally impressive are the explanations of the pilates principles and the brief history of how Joseph Pilates came up with this amazing movement method.
The author includes objectives and there are clear and concise explanations of each element such as the ‘Power House' and neutral spine positioning.
Essential tools for teachers
Teachers are therefore provided with useful tools on how to explain these important factors to both beginners and the more discerning pilates enthusiast.
An understanding of these concepts are crucial to any pilates text being effective to the practitioner and teacher alike and so the detailed diagrams are also very useful.
Additional extras include a chapter on postural assessment and an explanation on which key features decipher each postural type.
Exercise recommendations to manage and correct ones spinal alignment if required are also provided in a clear and concise fashion. This is another factor that sets this book apart from general pilates books currently on the market.
As I stated earlier, it is fantastic that there are such thorough books being written that illustrate the original method, as so many books are over cautious and, I believe, overly gentle.
Not for beginners
However, I must disagree with the author that this book is suitable for ‘practitioners at all levels'.
It should be noted that some of the movements in the classical method were originally intended for dancers and athletes alike and are now considered contraindicated by some health professionals due to the core strength and spinal mobility required to perform these exercises.
For example, the ‘Jack Knife' which involves lifting up onto the shoulders as in Plough Pose, and ‘Rocking' which is very much like Bow Pose but involves a dynamic rocking movement, would be far too advanced for a beginner, or even some intermediate practitioners.
In my opinion the book could have been made more accessible to the reader if the movements were arranged into routines for beginners, intermediate and advanced individuals.
This would help the participant with sequencing which is obviously a very important part of any health and fitness program but one which a novice may feel a little overwhelmed by.
The final word
In conclusion, I feel that, due to its complexity, this book would be somewhat overwhelming for a beginner.
It would, however, be an extremely useful tool however for instructors training to teach Pilates, or any fitness professional that already has a basic understanding of anatomy and exercise physiology and is seeking a more in-depth understanding of the classical pilates method.
Sally Parkes is Yoga Abode's technical expert. London-based Sally has been practising yoga for ten years and teaching for six. She has a degree in Sports and Exercise Science and is also a qualified personal trainer and pilates teacher. To contact Sally see www.sallyparkesyoga.com - or email sallyparkesyoga@hotmail.co.uk
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