Pilates Method

The Pilates Method is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th Century by German-American dancer Joseph Pilates. Joseph Pilates called the method The Art of Contrology, which refers to the way the method encourages the use of the mind to control the muscles.

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.

The first official Pilates Studio was opened in New York in 1926.