Pilates is now one of the most popular forms of exercise, with over 12 million people practicing worldwide. Here in the UK, its appeal has been ever growing since it was introduced from America by Alan Herdman in the 1970s. The technique was originally developed in the early 1900s by it’s namesake Joseph Pilates. Of course methods and techniques have been refined over the decades, but the basic pr
inciples remain the same. Pilates is a form of exercise designed to elongate, strengthen and revitalise the whole human body. Pilates concentrates on stretching and moving your body to increase balance, flexibility, core strength and muscle tone. The beauty of Pilates is that almost anyone can participate regardless of their fitness level or age. The benefits of Pilates are threefold.