Pilates was originally developed by Joseph Pilates after the World War II. It derived many of its concepts from yoga.

Pilates uses repetitive movements to re-educate and realign the body. This can rehabilitate an injured body, or strengthen a healthy one. If practised regularly over a period of time pilates develops a sculpted toned physique without adding muscle bulk.

Concentration and a controlled form of breathing are used with the pilates movements contributing to the relaxing element of the sessions.