History of Suspension and Sling exercise and therapies
Suspension and Sling therapies have been around since at least the turn of the century. It started as a tool for individual remedial gymnastics. Then was used for strengthening soldiers during both world wars. We also see many similarities from these early therapies into Joseph Pilates work including exercises on the trapeze and reformer.
Here are some citations of the earliest documented medical research:
1) 1971 Dec;51(12):1288-98. Sling suspension techniques, demonstrating the use of a new portable frame. 3. Treatment of motor disabilities. The lower extremity.
2) 1971 Dec;51(12):1288-98. Sling suspension techniques, demonstrating the use of a new portable frame. 3. Treatment of motor disabilities. The lower extremity.
3) Phys Ther. 1973 Aug;53(8):856-63. Sling suspension techniques, demonstrating the use of a new portable frame. IV. Treatment of motor disabilities: neck and trunk.
Johnson MM, Ehrenkranz C, Bonner CD.
1974 Sling Suspension Therapy-notations and manual
1978 Sling Suspension Therapy-Book
George Barling (Author), John Barling (Author)