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

The author is studying for the July California bar exam and is a certified Pilates instructor. —Erica Holopainen, Los Angeles Times, 2 May 2025

Tai chi, yoga, and Pilates are examples of exercises that promote balance. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 28 Apr. 2025

Early morning yoga, Pilates, and tai-chi sessions are offered daily on the beach and included with every stay. —Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2025

And here’s today’s e-newspaper Spring into movement At first glance, Pilates looks easy. —Alyssa Bereznak, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 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