Your Luxury Vehicle: Pilates

As a child, Joseph Pilates suffered from numerous diseases including asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever. As an adult, he felt determined to overcome these ailments and live a strong, healthy life. Because of his goal, Pilates devised the “ideal man” who was “holistically well.” Pilates studied Eastern culture and exercise. While in Germany, Pilates created an exercise program that required balance, flexibility, strength, power, agility, and acute mental focus.

While working in a German hospital, Pilates observed injured soldiers' inability to exercise because they were confined to a bed. Thus, Pilates manipulated old beds to use as exercise machines, enabling the soldiers to regain their strength and rehabilitate faster. In 1926, Pilates moved to New York and took his exercise methods with him. He lived next to a ballet studio, and helped young dancers heal from injury. In most cases, the performers became stronger dancers. Today, Pilates is used as a standalone or supplemental exercise. Many athletes use it to recover from injury, while others make it an important part of their routine. Pilates’ movements are ideal low-impact exercises for all ages and fitness levels.

Pilates Exercises

If you have the opportunity to practice Pilates in a studio or group format, you should maintain the appropriate behavior for the environment, including your attire and treatment of others. Pay attention to the instructor and focus on completing each movement as explained, to reduce the risk of injury and get the most out of your exercise session. In this interactivity, you will learn some specific Pilates exercises. Click the player button to begin.

Pilates Review

Now that you have studied Pilates, review your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Click the player button to get started.