Pilates

noun

Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz 

: 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

Examples of Pilates in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Gentle exercises like walking, stretching, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, or aquatic therapy may ease stiffness and improve strength. —Brandi Jones, Health, 2 July 2025

While it’s sometimes compared to Pilates, the two methods are very different. —Amy Wilkinson, SELF, 1 July 2025

There are Pilates reformers, a Spin studio, flotation tanks, a cryotherapy bed, ozone and sleep therapy beds, a shiny new hammam, and 20 treatment rooms. —Marcia Desanctis, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2025

The massive gym curates a packed roster of Pilates, yoga and cardio-barre fusion classes. —Katie Sweeney, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Joseph H. Pilates †1967 U.S. (German-born) fitness instructor

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for Pilates

• altarpiece
• centerpiece
• frontispiece
• mantelpiece
• masterpiece
• summarise
• syntheses
• apiece
• aris
• assise
• caprice
• cerise

Medical Definition

Pilates

noun

Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz 

: an exercise regimen typically performed with the use of specialized apparatus and designed to improve the overall condition of the body