PRESERVING THE LEGACY OF RON FLETCHER
The watermarked images below represent a selection from the Fletcher Pilates® photographic archive. Many of these photographs were produced through Fletcher Pilates® to document Ron Fletcher’s teaching and his long-standing partnership with the school that carries his name. Additional images from across Ron’s life were gifted to Fletcher Pilates® Director, Kyria Sabin, and now hold meaningful historical value for our lineage and community.
The Original Studio
Clara Pilates gifted this photograph to Ron Fletcher when he opened his first studio in Los Angeles, reflecting a key moment in bringing Contrology to the West Coast. This rare image offers a glimpse into the original studio, including Joseph Pilates, Clara Pilates, and their niece Mary. The photograph reflects a direct connection to the source and captures the physical space as it existed in that time For photo usage requests, please contact info@fletcherpilates.com.
The Early Years
Dapper young Ron Fletcher, who came from humble beginnings in Dogtown, Missouri carried an early sense of style and curiosity for movement. Little did he know that he would end up in New York City, dancing with the Martha Graham Company. These early experiences informed his perspective and guided his approach to movement.
The New York Years
In New York, Ron Fletcher’s, early professional experiences led him toward choreography, where his work expanded in scope and visibility. He began choreographing for productions on Broadway, with opportunities extending to Europe, Las Vegas, and the West Coast. These experiences broadened his professional horizons and ultimately led to his role as lead choreographer for the international Ice Capades, where he became the first non-skater selected for the position, marking a defining moment in his career.
The West Coast Years
Ron returned to New York after his time with the Ice Cappades and initiated an immersive study with Clara Pilates. Their time together unfolded through consistent, focused work and a growing mutual respect. The Spine Corrector became a central part of this study, later referred to by Ron as the ‘Clara Barrel’. With Clara’s encouragement, he carried the work west, opening his studio in Los Angeles and introducing Contrology to a new community. This marked the beginning of the Fletcher work on the West Coast. You can view Clara’s letters to Ron here.
The Master Teacher
After retiring from his studio, Ron Fletcher shifted his focus to teaching through workshops and conferences across the United States and internationally. This period marked a broader sharing of his work, reaching a growing global community. He became known for his distinct approach to the Pilates method, now recognized worldwide as the Fletcher Pilates lineage. The Fletcher Pilates School and Program of Study was developed with his direct guidance and remains the only teacher training program endorsed by Ron Fletcher.
