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

See Examples For:

Pilates

Pilates has a lot of benefits, but it’s not known for being especially sweaty or for building larger muscles.

From Salon ● Aug. 5, 2026

Part yoga, part Pilates and entirely unstable: Inside the high-intensity, low-impact pool workout making waves at the Annenberg Community Beach House.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 28, 2026

I have a bunch of free weights and I do Pilates there as well.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 18, 2026

Their festival programme has increased over the years to include run clubs, sound baths and Pilates, alongside activities like jewellery and candle-making.

From BBC ● Jul. 12, 2026

After my Pilates class last night I asked Tara if she wanted to go to the cinema with me one night next week, then if she’d cover for me.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins