Definition of Pilates
: an exercise regimen that is typically performed on a floor mat or with the use of specialized apparatus and aims to improve flexibility and stability by strengthening the muscles and especially the torso-stabilizing muscles of the abdomen and lower back
Long popular with dancers, Pilates recently has attracted a huge surge of athletes, models, actors and other body-conscious folks.— Patricia Hagen She does intensive Pilates, deep-muscle floor exercises and stretches. — Cosmopolitan
Buying Guide
Our Reviews team has selected the best yoga mats.
Test Your Vocabulary
Which Word Does Not Belong?
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share Pilates
Time Traveler for Pilates
The first known use of Pilates was in 1934
See more words from the same year