The Pilates advantage

Pilates exercise dramatically transforms the way your body looks, feels and performs. It builds strength without excess bulk, creating a sleek, toned body with slender thighs and a flat abdomen.

Pilates teaches body awareness, good posture and easy, graceful movement. It improves flexibility, agility and economy of motion. It can even help alleviate back pain.

Professional dancers have used Pilates for decades. Top athletes use it for strength, flexibility, and injury prevention. (See our new sections for running, golf and equestrians.) Hollywood celebrities and supermodels use it to maintain beautiful physiques.

A miracle? Not really. Developed from the rehabilitation techniques of Joseph Pilates, Pilates is a safe, sensible exercise system using a floor mat or equipment, that will help you look and feel your very best. No matter your age or condition, it will work for you.

Pilates develops a strong "core" or center of the body. The core consists of the deep abdominal muscles, and the muscles closest to the spine. The exercises develop core control, integrating the trunk, pelvis and shoulder girdle.

• Builds strength without "bulking up"
• Increases flexibility and agility
• Develops optimal core control
• Creates flat abdominals, slender thighs and a strong back
• Is a refreshing mind-body workout
• Is challenging yet safe

Mat or equipment?

Pilates is most often performed on a mat or a Reformer. A Reformer is a resistance-based piece of equipment with a moving carriage that slides along a wooden or metal frame. Springs and ropes provide assistance and resistance, and exercises are performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing.

Many Pilates enthusiasts prefer working on Reformers, which offer more resistance and support than a mat. Others love the flexibility of mat workouts, which allow you more flexibility in where and when you work out.

What’s right for you?

There are many ways to experience Pilates. Your personality and budget will help guide you.

• Getting Started is an overview of where you can do Pilates.
• Pilates at Home shares advice on bringing your Pilates exercise experience home.
• Visit Pilates at a Studio or Club for more about choose an environment that's right for you.
• See Your Sport if you're looking for a competitive edge.
• Use our Studio Finder to find a Pilates instructor or facility near you.