"In order to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong then you are young." - Joseph Hubertus Pilates

Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by German-born Joseph Pilates following his own experiences in rehabilitation, and influenced by yoga and Tai Chi. Pilates follows methodical principles based on a well-constructed philosophical, anatomical and theoretical foundation. Instead of performing many repetitions of each exercise, Pilates preferred fewer, more precise movements, requiring control and form.

Like yoga, Pilates emphasizes proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement (the Pilates Principles) that result in increased flexibility, strength, muscle tone, body awareness, energy, and improved mental concentration. He specified more than 500 specific exercises. The most frequent form, called "matwork," involves a series of calisthenic motions using the practitioner's own body weight for resistance. He also designed five pieces of exercise equipment. The two components are often taught separately now, although his intention was to combine both matwork and equipment exercises.

Although there are many similarities between the bodily aspects of yoga and Pilates practice, Pilates is not simply 'yoga without the fluff.' Several exercises / postures are different. There is some repetitive work. In all forms, the emphasis is on supporting and strengthening the core muscles, enabling the rest of the body to move freely. Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and strengthen the deep torso muscles, which are important to help alleviate and prevent back pain. Pilates exercises are performed fluidly, with grace of motion (control) emphasized over speed. There are no static, isolated movements.