1) Pilates was named after its inventor Joseph H. Pilates. Originally, the concepts of the physical activity were developed for injured soldiers were confined to their beds in an English hospital. Pilates innovated a machine from old hospital beds and springs,

2) In 1926, Pilates brought this exercise to America. It made its debut at fitness clubs to ballerina schools.

3) PILATES represents the acronym of Proximal Integrating Latent Agile Toning Exercise.

4) Although, Pilates is deemed a popular type of exercise, it is really a means of strengthening, toning and stretching the body.

5) The popularity coupled with the efficacy of Pilates makes it an exercise phenomenon that is not another trend

6) Despite some of the rigorous physical maneuvers/exercises of Pilates, it is not deemed a cardiovascular workout.

7) From neighbors to famous celebrities, Pilates is a fun, challenging physical activity that makes the body feel good.

8) A Pilates workout consist of a systematic practice designed to sculpt and tone the body's core through balance, breathing, stretching and strengthening.

9) Through the use of Pilates machines and other stationary exercises, the movements entail the exerciser performing systematic moves, while simultaneously contracting the torsos in one place and moving limbs in opposite.

10) Pilates challenges the body to be strong, flexible and balanced.

11) A combination of cardiovascular, resistance training and Pilates are recommended.

12) Pilates can still be quite strenuous.

13) Pilate's movements are executed and synchronized with breathing techniques with specific stretches with and without equipment.

14) Pilates is beneficial for the body because it offers a balance the body's core, strength and flexibility.

15) Pilates is similar to yoga because they both target flexibility, body alignment (posture) and overall strength.

16) Use of a high quality Pilates mat will greatly increase your comfort while performing pilates.