Ron Fletcher Timeline

1921

Born Ron Fletcher on May 29, 1921 in Edensville, Missouri.

1939

Moved to St. Louis and then to New York to begin a career in advertising at Saks 5th Avenue.

1944~

Inspired by a Martha Graham Dance Company, he sought an interview with the choreographer. After a three-week stakeout at the theatre, Martha eventually took him under her wing.

1946

Mentored and taught in Martha's company. He also appeared in a production of The Lute Song on Broadway and in London.

1948

Suffered a chronic knee injury that led him to Joseph Pilates New York studio.

1954

Became a high demand choreographer in New York, Las Vegas, and Paris and he was the first non-ice skating choreographer the Ice Capades where he choreographed 13 productions.

1967

Fired from the Ice Capades after turning up drunk to work. Began a recovery process around Easter, and he dedicated more time to Joseph's studio where Clara Pilates became his mentor.

1972

Brought Pilates to the West Coast where he opened the Ron Fletcher Company, Studio for Body Contrology on the corner of Rodeo and Wilshire in Los Angeles. He soon attracted A list clientele such as Nancy Reagan, Betsy Bloomingdale, Barbara Streisand, and Cher.

1977

Appeared on The Phil Donahue Show showcasing Pilates for the first time on television.

1978

Published his book Every Body is Beautiful. He also created a focus around breathing in Pilates and was the first to introduce Pilates in standing. He developed the Fletcher Towelwork® and a Fletcher Barrework program.

1988~

Moved to a ranch in Texas with his life-partner, John Battles.

2003

Authorized and endorsed the Ron Fletcher Program of Study to teach a new generation of Pilates teachers.

2007

Initiated Fletcher Pilates® International to enable Fletcher Faculty to teach the Fletcher Pilates techniques and methods around the world.

2013

Died on December 6, 2011 at age 90.