During private sessions, clients may work on the specially designed pieces of apparatus or on the mat or both. Excercises are chosen to meet the individual's specific needs for strength, stretching, balance or rehabilitation. Apparatus Work The system developed by Joseph Pilates includes the use of uniquely designed apparatus in conjunction with the mat work. The apparatus utilize straps, springs and supports, creating isometric resistance with the body's weight to massage, align, stretch, and strengthen muscles. At The Movement Place, we use only Gratz equipment, the firm which worked with Pilates himself to produce his designs. Mat Work The basis of Pilates's work is a series of exercises performed on a mat. The mat work emphasizes quality and precision rather than quantity of repetitions. Each exercise, performed in sequence, is designed not only to strengthen and stretch but to integrate your body's muscles so that correct form and posture become a part of daily activities throughout your life.