Joseph Pilates believed that our physical and mental health is intertwined. He designed his exercise program around principles that support this philosophy, including centering, concentration, precision, control, breathing and flowing movements. There are six main principles that are the foundation of the Pilates approach to exercise. They make the Pilates method very unique in the fitness world. Whether it is working out on the mat or using a piece of Pilates equipment, like the reformer or Cadillac, these 6 principles are the touchstones of each exercise. Joseph Pilates originally called his work "contrology" and by that he was referring to a body/mind/spirit approach that was founded on the integration of these principles.