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Pilates

American  
[pi-lah-teez] / pɪˈlɑ tiz /

noun

(used with a singular verb)
  1. a system of physical conditioning involving low-impact exercises and stretches designed to strengthen muscles of the torso and often performed with specialized equipment.


Pilates British  
/ pɪˈlɑːtiːz /

noun

  1. a system of gentle exercise performed lying down that stretches and lengthens the muscles, designed to improve posture, flexibility, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of Pilates

Named after Joseph Pilates (1883–1967), German fitness instructor

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I thought it was an injury from Pilates, but, after a couple of weeks of the pain, I went to see the nurse practitioner on call at my doctor’s office.

From The Wall Street Journal

They are not an impeccably furnished apartment, or a satisfyingly executed Pilates sequence at the end of a long workweek.

From Los Angeles Times

Pilates, which combines stretching and body weight conditioning exercises, has, for some, a fusty image - a gentle and genteel workout for those of advancing years.

From BBC

Williamson, who now lives in Manchester but still returns to see her parents in Hevingham, said she was "very passionate" about teaching Reformer Pilates and her work as a functional fitness coach.

From BBC

There was one mum who was always late to Pilates and Rachel says she would join the others in mocking her behind her back.

From BBC