In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his soul-stirring “I Have a Dream” speech, in which he spoke about the long, tragic history of racial and social injustice in America. He compared the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence to ‘promissory notes’ to which every American was to fall heir but declared that discrimination prevented this. Nevertheless, he stated, “…I still have a dream.”
Meanwhile, in New York City, there was another “dreamer” by the name of Joseph Pilates, who dreamt of a world that practiced “Contrology – complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.” He believed that “physical fitness is the first requisite to happiness,” and that, by practicing his method, many negative conditions that were a result of modern living could be eased or eliminated.
And today, in the year 2025, I believe both dreams are still highly relevant. As Pilates Teachers, we can help fulfill both people’s worthy dreams through our practice. We also have the privilege of helping fulfill our clients’ dreams. Clients from all walks of life come to us for many different reasons, with many different goals, dreams, and aspirations. Some want to have that Pilates Edge for playing sports, some want to work towards prevention or rehabilitation of injuries, others want more freedom of movement so that they can play with their grandchildren, and many others just want to practice a sustainable exercise system with multifaceted benefits, and dream of a better body.
Regardless of the dream or the dreamer, I believe we are charged with the task of teaching the Pilates method to the best of our ability in an equitable and inspiring manner, honoring ourselves and all the “dreamers” involved. Let us dream with them, working towards making the world a better place, one mindful action and movement at a time.
All ideas and assertions expressed in The CORE are those of the individual contributors, offered to spark conversation, enrich understanding/inspire growth and share diverse perspectives within our community. They may not necessarily reflect the views of Balanced Body®.
Robert Edison-Turner is a Marine Corps Veteran that discovered Pilates while working in Sports Physical Therapy after his University Studies in Sports Medicine Exercise Science.
Robert initially certified with Stott Pilates, then completed Lolita San Miguel’s Master Mentor program, and later Graduate study with Lori Coleman- Brown at Atlas Pilates in Seattle.
Robert continues to travel throughout the year learning, teaching, and training with various teachers in the Pilates community.
