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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Pilates

It’s like spending the day doing core-tightening exercises on a Pilates ball.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 10, 2026

Many severely underestimate the difficulty of Pilates or its high-intensity offshoots, which are built on low-impact movements that prioritize core strength, posture and slow burn.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 21, 2026

If she’s not available, I might go to Sapphire Pilates in Silver Lake.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 18, 2026

I have been working out with the same Pilates instructor since my son was 6 weeks old, and he was born in 2008.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 18, 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

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