What Is Pilates?

Pilates is rehabilitative exercise developed by Joseph H. Pilates (1883-1967) originally named Contrology. The movements work the spine in every spacial direction or plane of motion. The various exercises improve stress, joint mobility, flexibility, stability, and core strength. The exercises can be done on a mat using your own body weight or incorporate props such as the Pilates fitness circle. Pilates is also practiced using equipment that Pilates himself invented. The most popular and recognized piece of equipment is the reformer which was created during World War I on hospital beds. Pilates, like yoga, is considered to be mind-body exercise as breath is incorporated throughout. Unlike yoga however, the practice is not as mediative or ancient in origin.