Pilates Method

The Pilates Method is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th Century by German-American dancer Joseph Pilates. The most frequent form called "matwork" involves a series of calisthenic motions performed without weight or apparatus on a padded mat. Pilates also designed exercise equipment that can be optionally used.

In terms of physical exercise Pilates exercise resembles yoga but without the spiritual element. It was originally used to bring injured dancers back to full fitness, the idea being more to build bodily co-ordination and flexibility than stamina or muscle strength.