Named after the German Joseph Pilates, who developed this exercise method in the early 18th century. He first applied it while being interned in an English camp during WW1, to rehabilitate the injured. He was later invited to train the German army, but instead relocated to America with his wife Clara. There they further developed and taught his method, catering to the needs of athletes, dancers and gymnasts among others

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Today the Pilates method is practiced all over the world and is recommended as part of athletic, rehabilitative, antenatal, general fitness and performing arts programs (truly a movement method for anyone). It consists of mat exercises and use of specialized equipment, with modifications to suit any fitness level.