This statement from David Rosencrans is in reply to my recent article Modern Pilates Apparatus is Also Cool. David is the head of manufacturing and marketing at Gratz Industries.
Hi Brett
Although I do not personally engage in social media I feel like I know you through the forwded versions of Pilates Intel that I have received , I find your writing really engaging , thought provoking and witty – keep up the good work!
I became a partner at Gratz Industries (www.gratzindustries.com) almost 9 years ago intending to reinvigorate the architectural metal , sculpture and furniture end of the business . I immediately was intrigued by the Pilates apparatus in production and started taking classes at True Pilates in New York (formerly Drago’s Gym) and as I assumed control of the Pilates manufacturing and marketing , took a crash course in the Pilates culture as trusted friends Peter Fiasca , Kathi Ross Nash, Brooke Siler , Jay Grimes, Dorthee vande Walle and many others taught me about the significance of our apparatus as it relates to “classical ” Pilates
I did watch the video and read the article that you wrote and respect your opinions and can only say that I am a beginner (after 8 years of classes!) and do not have the knowledge or skill to comment on many of the questions and issues regarding equipment brands and the size of the apparatus.
I was personally told by Romana that ALL sizes and shapes of students could be taught on the 80″ Reformer and Jay Grimes has told me that he has trained huge basketball and football players on the trusted 80″ Reformer
We do of course offer 86″ and 89″ versions and understand that many of the other manufacturers have added many “bells and whistles” claiming to have “improved ” the work – but thankfully there are many in the global Pilates community that prefer our austere and simple apparatus , distilled from the actual equipment that Joseph Pilates created
Our “he invented it Gratz makes it!” slogan sums up our philosophy – we are a high end wood/metal fabrication and furniture shop and NOT Pilates experts but we maintain a faithful adherence to Joseph Pilates’ original apparatus , dimensions and designs and support the “system” and teachers that believe in his work and our brand.
best, David