Pilates was formed by Joseph Pilates during the First World War with the proposal to improve the rehabilitation program for the many returning veterans. Joseph Pilates believed mental and physical health are essential to one another. He recommended a few, precise movements emphasizing control and form to aid injured soldiers in regaining their health by strengthening, stretching, and stabilizing key muscles. Pilates created "The Pilates Principles" to condition the entire body: proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement.

Pilates strengthen your body and stretches you to relaxation. Your energy flow will increase and you will become more aware of your body's movement. It is excellent for pregnant women and elderly.

The most common way to do Pilates is to practise on a mat on the floor but there are also special designed machines that can be used. To find out what is the ideal clothing for pilates - read Choosing Pilates Outfit article.

The good thing about Pilates is that you can start doing it even if you're out of shape. After a few sessions you will start to feel the benefits.

Make sure you get a good instructor that can guide you all the way. The Pilates foundation will help you practice Pilates if you are travelling the world.

Pilates will help you feel more energized, relaxed, stress free and in good shape and there will be no need of running around or working out.