Pilates was originally developed by Joseph Pilates as a reaction to illnesses which left him with muscular weakness. Having studied Yoga, the martial arts and variety of other techniques he developed from these his own structured system of physical and metal exercise and took it with him to The United States in 1923 where it was used by performers and dancers as a useful aid to maintaining fitness and to help in rehabilitation from injury.

In the more recent advent of the health awareness Pilates has found a place in the centre of fitness rehabilitation (especially when dealing with orthopaedic, geriatric and neurological issues, chronic pain and other dibilitating problems.)

The growth of appartus in this field has allowed the process of pilates training to become even more accessible and has aided in the safe, 'soft recovery' of those it was intended for.

However, pilates has now evolved again and is no longer the exercise program of the elite but a whole life attitude establishment for well being - for all. Now with several million practioners worldwide pilates will continue to grow and educate.