What Is Pilates? A total body workout that is ideal for anyone who wants a leaner stronger more flexible body.   Pilates (Puh-LAH-tees) is a group of mild resistance control exercises designed to strengthen and stretch muscles and release tension without putting stress on the joints. Because your mind is engaged with your body to perform the movements correctly, you gain a new awareness of muscle function and control. With over 500 exercises on five major pieces of equipment, a pilates workout is engaging and fun, yet it develops the body with balance. People leave their sessions feeling relaxed, refreshed, and invigorated. The exercises can be done on the floor or on specially designed equipment invented by Joseph Pilates. These hand-crafted pieces of equipment are constructed with variable spring resistance which builds defined long and lean muscles while increasing range of motion and flexibility. The method has a devout following among people who have seen their bodies become stronger, more flexible and better balanced. Best of all, it is a no-impact workout that's good for anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. Developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates, the method was originally called Contrology. Valuing physical fitness as the first requisite to happiness, Pilates was among the first to connect mind and body through exercise. He instructed the technique until his death (in a fire) in 1967 at age 87.