Authentic Pilates in Shell Cove
What is Contrology?
Contrology is a dynamic fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. He named it Contrology because of the overarching principle to achieve complete control of your body and mind through deliberate and precise movements.. Its through the repetition of these movements that you aquire physical mastery and develop a strong mind-body connection. It was only after he died in 1967 at age 83, that it became known as the Pilates Method.
“Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.”
Why learn Contrology?
At Melanie Lorena Contrology, we use the term Contrology because we teach the exact format Joseph Pilates used to teach his students in his original New York studio. This format is called Open Studio.
Currently, There are only two studios in NSW to provide the Open Studio format. We believe in remining faithful to the original teaching method Joseph Pilates created and ensuring his work is not lost or diluted. Through this purest form of Pilates we emphasise independence, body awareness, and the simplicity of Contrology.
Learning Contrology will help you to:
Be in complete control of your body and mind
Increase muscle strength
Improve posture
Develop coordination and rhythm
Increase flexibility
Boost overall fitness levels
What is Open Studio?
The Open Studio format of learning Contrology differs from modern Pilates practices because it follows Joseph Pilates original sequence of exercises. Students work independently on their personalised exercises while receiveng guidance and corrections as needed. This independence fosters self-sufficiency, autonomy, and mastery over time. Learning Pilates in this way increases the ability to control the body and mind with greater efficiency than if just being a passive participant in a large class environment as in most modern Pilates practices..
Jay Grimes was the only first generation teacher (a student directly tuaght by Joseph Pilates) who remained faithful to the Open Studio format that Joesph Pilates taught, and Jay carried that forward in his legacy teaching multiple second generation teachers till he passed in 2024 at the age of 84,.
The Open Studio format benefits students by:
developing a strong body-mind connection
supporting each individuals pace of aquiring skills
allowing autonomy in ones practice
providing a stimulating environment to learn
cultivating and experiencing the original method as Joseph Pilates intended
“Forget everything you know about exercise... Pilates is different.”
What can I expect from classes
Starting a Pilates practice at Melanie Lorena Contrology opens the doors to a transformative fitness journey. As the Pilates method is a whole-body workout, you can expect a significant boost in whole-body strength. Flexibility will improve, allowing for greater freedom of movement and reduced injury risk. Enhanced posture leads to better body mechanics, awareness, and overall alignment, which can help us feel better in our bodies. Pilates is also a great stress reliever, providing elevated feelings of well-being and promoting relaxation.
Through Contrology, you will better understand your body's capabilities and limitations, fostering a strong mind-body connection. The Pilates method improves overall fitness no matter if you’re a beginner or more advanced, making it an ideal practice for anyone looking to enhance their physical health. Additionally, the supportive environment in the studio ensures that everyone can thrive, from beginners to seasoned athletes.
Classes cater to everyone, from athletes to seniors and expectant mothers. You can be assured that you will receive personalised attention, helping you achieve your fitness goals through the original Pilates method.
Come and experience Contrology classes in Shell Cove, where you will be guided every step of the way.
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Private Pilates Classes
Your Pilates journey at Melanie Lorena Contrology begins with an initial private session, where you’ll learn your fist set of exercises. From there, you can move into our Open Studio classes.
Some clients need more than one private session before joining Open Studio, depending on their specific needs or where they’re at in injury rehabilitation. After your first private session, you’ll receive guidance to help determine what’s right for you.
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Open Studio Pilates Classes
Open Studio classes adhere to Joseph Pilates’ original teaching methodology, giving clients the autonomy and independence to work toward mastery of the Pilates sytem over time. This approach also builds awareness of how to lean into strengths and work on limitations.
Open Studio offers a dynamic, engageing environment for participants of all fitness levels. Clients work alongside each other on their own exercises, fostering both independnece and a sense of community among like-minded people practising the art of the Pilates method together.
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Virtual Classes
Virtual classes make it possible to bring Melanie Lorena Contrology’s teaching into your own home, wherever you are. Sessions are built around the fundamental matwork.
Many clients have one or more pieces of equipemnt at home and sessions are tailored accordingly to make full use of what’s available.
Many clients also incorporate both in-person and virtual sessions, an adaptability that supports a consistent Pilates practice, one that meets you exactly wwere you are.