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

---

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

But despite Reformer Pilates becoming increasingly popular, with celebrities such as Ed Sheeran taking up the exercise, the industry is not formally regulated.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Fresh from a Pilates class in the church hall, Lise Gothard, 54, says there is "a lot of talk" online about anti-social behaviour in the Hamptons.

From BBC • May 1, 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

“Okay, so I’m gonna have to go on a cleanse and add in some cycling and Pilates classes.”

From "Dumplin'" by Julie Murphy