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

One TikTok user posted a video of his Pilates speech being projected onscreen in her psychology class, as a case study.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2026

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 • Feb. 13, 2026

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 • Feb. 11, 2026

I have a Peloton subscription—I don’t even have a Peloton—because I love their barre and Pilates classes and some of their strength-training stuff.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 19, 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