Pilates is the method of exercise developed by German-born Joseph Pilates. In 1926, Joseph and Clara Pilates brought their exercise system, originally called "Contrology", to New YorkCity. The Pilates method is a physical movement program designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body. Pilate exercise focuses on postural symmtery, breath control, abdominal strength, spine, pelvis and shoulder stabilization, muscular flexibility, joint mobility and strengthening through the complete range of motion of all joints. Instead of isolating muscle groups, the whole body is trained, integrating the upper and lower extremities with the trunk. With systematic practice of specific exercises coupled with focused breathing patterns, Pilate has proven itself invaluable not only as a fitness endeavor, but also as an important adjunct to professional sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds. Return to Life and Your Health are the only texts published by Joseph Pilates. These texts provide a basis to understand the history and philosophy behind the Pilates method. Align Studio believes as does Pilates Method Alliance that the Pilates method of instruction should be in accordance with current scientific research and biomechanical principles.