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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of Pilates

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

Example Sentences

She said she regrets not exercising and now does Pilates once a week.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 17, 2026

Although the craze is high right now, Reformer was invented by Joseph Pilates during World War I, when he adapted hospital beds with springs to help rehabilitate patients.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Advertisements lure patrons to restaurants to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and Easter with buckets of beer and a variety of seafood, and encourage the adventurous to brave a Halloween obstacle course at a Pilates studio.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

I do a mix of strength training, so I’m lifting weights three days a week and the other two days a week I do reformer Pilates with a trainer, which I really love.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

I diversified my training, too, by incorporating Pilates reformer, kickboxing, interval running, everything and anything to increase my stamina and strength.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad