About Us

We have a passion for preserving and sharing the original method.

Something old - Something new

With so few studios devoted to traditional Pilates, ironically, the original method (developed over 100 years ago) will feel new to many - we’re excited to share it with you.

Contrology is the original name Joseph Pilates gave to his method.

A complete system of movement performed on specialised apparatus, it builds strength, length and balance while restoring vitality to the body.

The work is integrated — not muscle-isolating — designed to improve circulation, coordination, strength, suppleness and balance so you can move through life with energy and resilience.

Traditional Lineage

We have studied and honour the teachings of all of Joseph Pilates direct students.

We primarily follow the lineage of Jay Grimes and those he passed his knowledge onto.

Jay Grimes (1940 - 2024) was a student of Jospeh and Clara Pilates in the 1960’s. As a professional ballet dancer and performer on broadway, he never experienced any injuries throughout his 18year career, and credits this to his ongoing practise of Pilates.

He was asked to assist teaching in the original Pilates studio on 8th Avenue in New York, and then when Joe passed he spent another 10 years assisting Clara before her passing.

Jay is known for his integrity and humility in passing on the original work as he remembers being taught by Joe. It is with great pride that we try and pass on this legacy to the best of our ability at Amity.

“We don’t change the work, the work changes us.”

— Jay Grimes (student of Joseph & Clara Pilates & teacher of the method)

“No man - no machine can correct or create vitality,  power or health for you;  everything comes from within, you have to unfold it” - Joseph H Pilates