Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates who took his inspiration from Eastern and Western techniques to develop an excercise system designed to restore the body to balance through strengthening, stretching and stabilizing the “core” muscles of the back, abdomen and pelvis and restore the body to proper alignment. Through mindful and focussed practice Pilates can create an attention-free union of mind and body, so that without thinking about it the body will move with economy, grace, and balance.