Pilates

American

[pi-lah-teez] / pɪˈlɑ tiz /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

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

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.

Kamryn Thomas, a 26-year-old Pilates instructor from the Houston area, said the reunion filled her with emotion and knowledge.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 21, 2026

At other converted Manhattan buildings, developers have installed basketball courts, Pilates studios and both indoor and outdoor pools.

From Barron's • Jun. 14, 2026

The analysis did not include certain forms of strength training, such as calisthenics and Pilates.

From Science Daily • Jun. 12, 2026

Soon, the sounds of boards being kicked and mannequins being punched will echo from a former Pilates studio on Palisades Drive.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

Tara says the last time she saw Megan was on Friday afternoon at their Pilates class.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023