Sandy Shimoda, author of the Contrology Handbook, shares her insights and motivations for writing a concise resource focused on Joe Pilates' ingenious method of exercise. Available in the Balanced Body online shop.
There are some things that can't be learned by reading a book, and Contrology, Joe Pilates' method of exercise, is one of them. So why, might you ask, have I written a handbook about it?
I wrote it because my students taught me the need to establish a basis of understanding about Contrology. Not unlike martial arts, astrology, or even religion, branches can grow from the roots of important ideas. To stave off confusion, my students over the years have thrived by nurturing the roots Joe cultivated: a method that equips us with the means to maintain good health and quality of life.
This handbook is for the new student in search of an exercise regime of self-care. It is for the experienced practitioner who knows how to do Pilates and wants to understand why it works. And it aims to debunk common misunderstandings about Joe's goals by refocusing on his original ideas with curiosity.
After Joe Pilates' death in 1967, his surname came to represent many different things. Today, it is commonly referred to in physical therapy, modern group fitness classes, and as the exercise choice of numerous svelte celebrities. Of course, it's not difficult to see why Joe's exercises and equipment have crossed over into complementary movement forms. After all, his life's work delivers results across a broad range of needs. Yet my students, many of whom are teachers, consistently demonstrate how Joe's method works at its best, both in practice and in philosophy.
No matter what you know about Pilates, I hope the Contrology Handbook complements your practice. It is a concise resource based on 20 years of training with and teaching beside Jay Grimes, coupled with a deep consideration of Joe's written materials. It offers a starting point from which understanding can blossom. We are lucky to have several good resources highlighting Joe's history, exercises, etc., but what sets this handbook apart is its focus on the method itself.
If you don't know Jay Grimes, please allow me to introduce you to him. Jay trained at Joe's studio in the 1960's and eventually assisted Joe in his studio on 8th Avenue in New York City. Jay learned the method in Joe's studio under Joe and Clara's guidance. As a student, a teacher, and an astute observer, Jay learned to understand Contrology in his body. This handbook highlights some of Jay's stories, illustrating his deep respect for Joe's genius and the reasons why Jay never felt a need to change or improve on what he learned from the source.
I hope you enjoy this heartfelt tribute to Joe and his brilliantly crafted method. And I hope you learn from Jay's insight and dedication to preserving Joe's work as he remembers it. But most of all, I hope that Joe's philosophy takes root in you the way it did in me so we might perpetuate a tradition worth sharing for generations to come.
Sandy Shimoda, BBA, MBA
Owner of Vintage Pilates
Sandy has taught movement for over 40 years and was certified by Romana Kryzanowska in 2003. A longtime student of Jay Grimes, she is passionate about helping clients move better and guiding teachers in Joe’s work. With business degrees and entrepreneurial experience, she also mentors studio owners. Sandy co-developed the Contrology line, appears on Pilatesology, and authored The Contrology Handbook. She teaches online, in Honolulu, and worldwide. Learn more at Vintage Pilates.
