Does anyone know exactly, who originally introduced the version of "Mermaid" as in our Intermediate Mat repertoire, and how it originated?

It does not appear in "Control to Life through Contrology" as far as I am aware, and this would suggest that it is not one of Joseph Pilates original exercises. I ask out of interest really, as its all part of understanding the Classical Mat Series.

Thank you.  Colin Henry.

Hi Marco,

The intermediate mat Mermaid is actually the Mermaid Stretch. I was introduced to this exercise by Romana. Hope this helps.

Hi Colin,

First I think it’s important to understand that all of Joseph Pilates' work was not recorded in his book, pictures or visual recordings. We are teaching a living tradition passed down from generation to generation. It would be nice if everything was documented for posterity but it's not. What a dream that would be! Even if it was though, it would be a snap shot in time and I can’t imagine Joseph Pilates desiring that we only teach was documented. 

However, I do appreciate your desire to know the roots of what you’re teaching, that’s important to me too. I was taught the Mermaid by Romana as is in our manual (she called it something different then) and other variations of it, too. She taught me one where you slide out and in on the floor. One arm slides out and then it drags in pulling the body up to the starting position. It’s truly like a Mermaid. 

Additionally, I was taught Mermaid by Kathy Grant and Ron Fletcher which are similar to what Romana did.

There is also Mermaid, as you know, on the Cadillac, chair and reformer with numerous variations. The fun continues with that exercise. I hope this satisfies your interest!

Hello Colleen:

It seems from what you are saying that the Intermediate Mermaid in all probability originated from Joseph Pilates, since you were taught it by Romana, and one would assume that Romana was carrying on his work? This is further supported by the fact that you were taught it also by Kathy Grant and Ron Fletcher.

Clare in her response refers to it as the Mermaid "Stretch", and this seems to me to suggest it is a "prep" exercise for the Advanced Mermaid as in the manual. Is my assumption correct?

You said that Romana called the Mermaid Stretch something different; may I ask you what she called it please?

Thank you, and also, my thanks to Clare.   Colin.