Pilates is a form of strength and stretching exercise that focuses on the core muscles and on toning and lengthening all muscles. Pilates is sometimes thought of as a cousin of yoga because they both involve poses that are designed to conjure strength and balance. Pilates was originally developed by Joseph Pilates as a form of rehabilitation. Joseph Pilates developed rehabilitation exercises using contraptions like pulleys and springs to allow those who were bedridden to exercise.  This form of rehabilitation and exercise evolved over the years, and many dancers began to use Pilates as part of their training regimen.

Many Pilates purists believe that the best way to perform Pilates is with equipment like a reformer, an apparatus that is designed to support the user through a full range of motion to get the most benefit in terms of strength, flexibility and control. However the majority of Pilates enthusiasts enjoy practicing Pilates on a mat on the floor. Mat Pilates is great because it can be done almost anywhere and by almost everyone to strengthen and tone.