about us

John Garey Pilates - Training Southern California for six years.

The mission of John Garey Pilates is to empower people to a healthier, happier lifestyle through Pilates and Fitness. Our philosophy is that Fitness should be fun. The environment at JGP is one of encouragement and lightheartedness. Take a little time for yourself and always leave feeling a little taller, a little fitter, and of course, smiling.

John Garey, founder of John Garey Pilates, worked in the fitness industry for 15 years before opening the first studio on Broadway in Long Beach, CA. Prior to opening JGP, John directed Group Fitness and Pilates Programs for some of the most prestigious clubs throughout the USA. In 2001, he decided to open a STOTT PILATES* Licensed Training Center. His goal was to create an environment where clients and staff would feel welcome and motivated to achieve their personal goals. The first studio, only 650 Square Feet was the beginning of that great journey. After just three years John Garey Pilates was ready for more space (and better parking) - we found a new home at The MarketPlace in Long Beach. Now with over 3,400 square feet and 20 staff members, the dreams John had for JGP are all continuing to evolve. The beautiful studio has three separate rooms and can accomodate Pilates, as well as Group Fitness classes and Private Training.

The mission of JGP has not changed since the doors opened in 2001 and John is grateful to everyone who has helped make this dream a growing and continuing success.

Pilates is for everyone

Pilates (pronounced Puh-la-teez) is sweeping the nation. This unique form of exercise, created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s, was originally called “Contrology.” The name Contrology didn’t stick, but the Pilates method has gained great popularity over the last century because of its numerous benefits, and its ability to transform bodies to perfection. Pilates can benefit people of any age or fitness level. Pilates studios are opening everywhere and many gyms and health clubs are adding Pilates to their programs.

	"The STOTT PILATES* approach is athletic based and offers modifications and variations that will allow for many different fitness levels and physical abilities."

So, what exactly is Pilates and how do you find the best program and most qualified instructor?

Pilates is a complete exercise system of stretching and strengthening. Joseph Pilates stated that his method “develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.” Pilates also increases strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and body awareness. The exercises were developed from a combination of yoga, gymnastics, and martial arts. This amazing system tones your muscles without creating bulk. Pilates is taught in group classes or private training sessions, with or without equipment.

Since, like yoga, there are now many different styles of Pilates, choosing the style and instructor that’s best for you is very important. Doing Pilates incorrectly can hurt you. Look for an instructor that is fully trained through a nationally recognized program. STOTT PILATES* is a great example of an internationally recognized instructor training program. STOTT PILATES* instructors have trained anywhere from three months to a number of years and must pass a comprehensive written and practical exam. Stay clear of instructors who are not trained through a reputable program or who have trained in a very short amount of time. There are actual training programs that exist that are less than 3 hours long! Learning to teach Pilates safely and effectively is quite involved and takes years to perfect.

	“STOTT PILATES* is amazing! Studying with Moira Merrithew has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I believe that STOTT PILATES* should be a part of everyone's fitness approach.” John Garey, MA

Pilates styles vary from quite slow in pace (similar to physical therapy), to very choreographed and “dancie,” to strong and athletic based. The STOTT PILATES* approach is athletic based and offers modifications and variations that will allow for many different fitness levels and physical abilities. Once you decide on the style of Pilates that best suits your goals, take a class or a private session from an instructor trained in that style. STOTT PILATES* lists Instructors who have completed the training and received a Certificate after passing their final exam at www.stottpilates.com. Don’t be afraid to ask your instructor about their credentials. They should be proudly displayed.

Whichever style of Pilates you choose; you should enjoy the work and feel comfortable and confident with your instructor. The best Pilates workouts will be challenging, not draining. A great Pilates session leaves you feeling refreshed and invigorated! Try a Pilates session today and enjoy the many benefits.

by John Garey, MA in Adult Fitness from New York University, STOTT PILATES* Master Instructor-Trainer, Owner of John Garey Pilates in Long Beach, CA, PMA Certified and Member of the PMA Ethics Committee..

STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than a decade refining the STOTT PILATES® method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES® training and certification programs. It's used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.

Why are you touted as the "Professional's Choice"?

Since its inception over 20 years ago, STOTT PILATES® has grown from a small studio into the world's most respected Pilates brand. While much has changed since we first opened our doors in 1988, our mission of promoting the ongoing benefits of mind-body fitness worldwide remains a constant. Our full-service company provides all the training, equipment and ongoing support you need to build a strong and successful Pilates business. Whether your goal is to establish Pilates group exercise programs, take your personal training to the next level, set up a fully equipped studio, or train to become a certified instructor – we go the distance to help you succeed. STOTT PILATES®' mission is to fulfill the needs of Pilates enthusiasts everywhere and that's why we're the number one source for everything Pilates – spanning equipment, education and media.

What is the difference between the STOTT PILATES® Method and other Pilates techniques?

STOTT PILATES® incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES® exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, placing more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.

What are the benefits of STOTT PILATES®?

- longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
- improves postural problems
- increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
- enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
- balances strength & flexibility
- heightens body awareness
- no-impact, easy on the joints
- can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
- complements other methods of exercise
- improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
- improves balance, coordination & circulation

	The Five Basic Principles: - Breathing - Pelvic placement - Rib cage placement - Scapular movement - Head & cervical spine placement

What are the principles behind the STOTT PILATES Method?

STOTT PILATES exercise improves core strength and balances the muscles around the joints, improving the way your body functions, looks and feels. The Five Basic Principles focus on:
- Breathing
- Pelvic placement
- Rib cage placement
- Scapular movement
- Head & cervical spine placement

Is STOTT PILATES® exercise like Yoga?

In some respects Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. The difference is that while Yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with STOTT PILATES® exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.