Caged Lion: Joseph Pilates and His Legacy

Very entertaining read on some of the history of Joe Pilates and a well informed illustration of the evolution of Pilates. The author writes without ego despite his personal relationship with Pilates and delivers a balanced, intimate account. Enriching and deepened my knowledge of the method as a practitioner and instructor.

I'm a beginner practitioner but the area I live in - almost all the classical studios are run by Romana-trained teachers. There's always been an air of elitism in the sessions, but it's so eye-opening to read a different account of what happened in the history of pilates. It's also validating that one of my personal goals (to be able to practice independently without constant instructor supervision) is actually closer to Joe's original vision for Contrology. As someone who has a hard time finding instructors in my area - this book is just freeing. Now, I feel like there's this whole other world of Pilates to explore - not just classical (or in my case, Romana).

As a long-time Pilates practitioner and teacher, I was happy to get the low-down from someone who actually knew and worked a long time with Joe and Clara Pilates, and was even befriended by them. So many people think that Pilates is what Romana made it into. That is not the whole story. This is written by a man who just seemingly tells what actually went on, without agenda. I enjoyed the book very much. Thank you, John Steel for sharing your experiences with us!

I thought this was a very insightful look into the early days of Pilates, written by one who both worked with Joe and saw the continuation of Pilates to what it is today. The author also offers an up close viewpoint of the trademark laws. Written from his own viewpoint, it doesn’t paint Romana in a very positive light. There were some shocking revelations in this book - the story Joe touted concerning the origins of his exercise method may not actually be true - being one of them. I really enjoyed reading this book and while it answered some questions about Pilates and his exercise method, it also raised other questions for me. I recommend this book to all Pilates instructors.

I absolutely loved this book. John is a great writer and entertaining. The book is a smooth and easy read. The best part about this book is that John was actually THERE with Joe and Clara rather than someone writing about them by interviewing others. He does clearly say in the beginning that the story is how HE saw things and from his viewpoint. Apparently there are a few that don’t agree with his “opinion” but I read it as just that - how he saw things and it was just great. If you’re a Pilates instructor or enthusiast I highly recommend this book as a MUST READ. You will enjoy it, find it eye-opening, perhaps even shocking at times, but all around a true story you should read. It is so fascinating to hear about Joe and Clara and their real lives from someone who was part of their real lives. Just buy the book!

As a Pilates teacher since 2001, this book reminded me of why I love Pilates and what a gift it has been in my life in many ways but mostly that it connected some dots for me, as I have also had a daily art practice for quite a few years, which I call my daily meditation, but is also a FLOW experience, just like Pilates. Makes sense.

I enjoyed this book immensely! I started taking Pilates November 2023 because I thought it would be gentler on my body since I have cervical and shoulder issues. I had no idea how Pilates would change my life. About 4 months into the practice, I got Joe’s book “Return to Life.” I was interested in know who Joseph Pilates was. It was a simple book, a good read and included his mat work. In January 2025 I decided to enroll in teacher training with Club Pilates. It was during my in-studio training I hear about Caged Lion. After reading John Howard Steel’s book, I’m even more grateful for Pilates! I appreciate the time and effort Mr. Steel put into this book to help me understand where Pilates came from, how it was almost extinct and the very small humble beginnings of Joe and Clara Pilates. Thank you to all who helped with this book!!

I picked up this book initially whilst studying yoga, I was interested in knowing the similarities between the two. Albeit, I have not read the book until now, I am still intrigued by the similarities and often wonder if Joseph Pilates had been exposed to the workings of yoga or just developed his program from his own inspiration of caged big cats. This book is an exploration into the mind and workings of a man who seems to have had a difficult past of which he did not elaborate. Joseph Pilates was hardly relatable and very unique, hardened by his past experiences which he compartmentalized and never discussed. I'd recommend this book to those seeking history and background to Contrology/Pilates with the addition of a look into the psyche of its creator.

A very interesting read that allows one to understand Joseph a little bit more than what is written in other books. It’s important to understand history and to learn about how others have made it possible to have this great form of physical rehabilitation available to us today. I even bought a shower brush (when you read the book you’ll know what I mean). Thank you for taking the time to research and write this book!

I could not put this book down!! Such an interesting and well written book by the author who was actually trained by Joseph Pilates. If you have an interest in Pilates, then this book is a must read. Would highly recommend!!!

Este livro deve realmente entrar na lista de todos os amantes de Pilates. Joe como nunca visto antes. História intrigante.

Chegou muito bem embalado e o envio foi rápido. Recomendo.

Amazing book about legend