Pilates is a mindbody exercise system developed in the 1900s by Joseph Pilates, a renowned physical trainer. It is a system of exercises using special apparatus, designed to improve physical strength, flexibility, posture, and enhance mental awareness.
Incorporating the 5 basic principles of Pilates: Breathe, Pelvic placement, rib cage placement, scapular movement and stabilization, cervical and neck placement, he created a series of exercises across a wide range of equipment, using system of cables and trolleys, to be used for fitness and rehabilitation. Pilates provides immense benefits such as increasing strength, flexibility and control of the body. It also builds endurance and coordination in the legs, abdominals, arms and back.
Pilates equipment comprises of the mat, reformer, cadillac, chair and barrels as well as small props. With its system of pulleys and springs, handles and straps, the apparatus can provide either resistance or support, depending on your needs. The same exercises done on different apparatus will benefit different body types and work different muscle groups.