Pilates

noun

Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz How to pronounce Pilates (audio)
: 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
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The site’s activewear label, FP Movement, has some seriously cute pieces that are also practical for activities like Pilates, running, HIIT classes, and more. Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 8 Apr. 2025 Watching reels about bubble baths and Pilates doesn’t seem to be enough to ease work stress, ladies. Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 7 Apr. 2025 The weekly calendar includes multiple types of sound therapy, Yoga Nidra, breathwork, meditation, Pilates and astrology classes. Sherrie Nachman, Forbes.com, 2 Apr. 2025 Being a Pilates instructor who could barely stand wasn't ideal. Ron Estes, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Pilates

Word History

Etymology

Joseph H. Pilates †1967 U.S. (German-born) fitness instructor

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Pilates was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“Pilates.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Pilates. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

Pilates

noun
Pi·​la·​tes pə-ˈlä-tēz How to pronounce Pilates (audio)
: an exercise regimen typically performed with the use of specialized apparatus and designed to improve the overall condition of the body
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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