Pilates- The history of beneficial movement with benefits
Date : 21, November, 2025
Futuristic machines, an energized fitness studio and people moving gracefully, it's most likely you stumbled on a Pilates studio. In this article, we will understand how it went from a rehabilitation method to a global movement embraced by athletes, dancers and everyday people alike.
Let's take a look at the fascinating mind-body practice and the main man behind it.
What is Pilates?
A low impact form of exercise focussing on core straight, flexibility and overall body awareness. Emphasizing on controlled movements, precise alignment and conscious breathing. While it looks calming and easy, Pilates can seriously challenge your muscles and you mentally leaving you stronger, taller and more balanced.Pilates works on the entire body, but places a special emphasis on the core, which Joseph Pilates referred to as the Powerhouse. The core includes your abs, lower back, hips and glutes. A strong powerhouse leads to better posture, improved movement and reduced back pain which improves every movement you have. From running marathons to picking up your kids.
You can use a mat to use your body weight or use specialized equipment like the Reformer, WUnda Chair or Cadillac. You shouldnt be intimidated by the names, these tools are designed to support and challenge you in the right way no matter your fitness level.
The Man behind Movement: Joseph Pilates
German born, Pilates was the first to believe that physical and mental health are deeply connected. Born in 1883, he was ill and faced many different illnesses, as a result he was obsessed with the idea of self-healing through movement. Studying everything from Bodybuilding, yoga, martial arts and even gymnastics, he developed his own unique system. DUring World War I, while interning in a camp in England, he began teaching his method to fellow inmates to help them stay fit and recover from injuries. He even attached springs to hospital beds to have bedridden patients exercise which later became the Pilates Reformer.
After the war, on returning to New York City in 1920, Pilates and his wife Clara opened their first studio. The news spread through the dance world and everyone found Pilates to be a game changer. The method helped Dancers recover from injuries, improve their techniques and prevented further strains. Dancers like Martha Graham and George Balanchine were early adopters which helped to spread the word about Pilates far and wide.
Present Day Pilates: Elite Studios to Everyday wellness
Pilates was a well kept secret with dancers and athletes. In the late 20th century, it exploded into mainstream fitness culture. PIlates is now a popular option in many cities in the world and it has evolved into several styles such as classical, contemporary, athletic and Therapeutic which Nufloe brings to you.
The adaptability of Pilates is what is so amazing. Tailoring to meet the needs of anyone from a beginner to expert or someone recovering from surgery to a seasoned athlete looking to enhance performance. It is also great for both males and females as the benefits go beyond the physical, improving mental focus, reducing stress and helps to reconnect with one's body in a deeper way.
Why should you try Pilates at Nufloe?
Strengthen your core and stabilize your spine
Improve posture, balance and flexibility
Prevent and recover from injuries
Boost body awareness and coordination
Feel stronger, calmer and more aligned- inside out
Even if you’re brand new to fitness or looking to complement your current routine or just migrate to a new routine, Nufloe in Sri Lanka, offers many programs which are smart, safe and incredibly rewarding. So the next time you hear someone rave about their hundred, remember it’s not just an exercise, it's a whole philosophy of mindful movement.
Speak to our movement specialists now! Your powerhouse will thank you!