I was introduced to the Ped-O-Pul during my comprehensive teacher training in Germany. Back then, I don't think I quite understood the true meaning of this apparatus. Several years later, I visited Vintage Pilates for the first time and had a lesson with Karen Frischmann. She had me work on the Ped-O-Pul towards the end of our lesson.Â
What I remember clearly is, how I had this huge "Aha moment" doing "Centering" for the first time. Suddenly, I had this feeling of freedom in my shoulders paired with elongation in my spine and a deep grounding through my feet. Ever since this is one of my absolute favorite exercises not only on the Ped-O-Pul but also within the entire Pilates system.Â
This piece of equipment is as important as every other piece of apparatus when practicing and teaching Pilates. That's something, I did learn during my participation in "The Work" at Vintage Pilates in 2015. When I moved from California to North Carolina in 2017, I went from teaching in a fully equipped Classical Pilates Studio to working out of my little home studio. While I had every other piece of apparatus, I didn't own a Ped-O-Pul at that time. My studio just never felt complete without it and when the Contrology Ped-O-Pul was launched, I got it right away. It's always a big celebration when I get a new piece of equipment delivered - and that was certainly true for the Ped-O-Pul as well.
As soon as it was out of the box and assembled, I was on it to try it out. The first thing I noticed was the longer pole and I was curious to see how that would feel. The Contrology Ped-O-Pul did not disappoint. I could immediately feel the deeper level of connection it gave me. All the Contrology springs are kind of in a category of their own - and these springs are no exception. I do love how these springs - while strong and challenging - still move with ease and fluidity. I never feel like I have to fight them. Quite the contrary - they help me to work deeper from my center so not to overuse my arms or shoulders.Â
Rebekka Schulze, BHSc PT
Owner of Pilates & Horses
Rebekka Schulze, born and raised in Germany, began teaching horse riding at 17 and became a certified instructor by 19. Her passion for biomechanics led her to physical therapy, earning her degree in Germany and a Health Science (Physiotherapy) degree from the University of Sydney. She’s worked globally in PT, education, and adaptive riding. In Asia, she discovered Pilates and now combines it with her equestrian background to help clients overcome pain and improve performance. Learn more at Pilates and Horses.
