PILATES PRIMER

If these moves pique your interest, think about trying a studio class. Here’s some background before you go.

What is Pilates, exactly?

It’s a collection of exercises to develop functional balance, strength, and flexibility. The moves are performed on a mat or on a reformer, a large wood platform with a sliding carriage, springs, ropes, and handholds.

Who does it?

These days, everyone. Lebron James and Aaron Judge do Pilates for strength, control, and focus. It’s also used in rehab. In fact, Joseph Pilates got the idea when he was an orderly during WWI, caring for injured soldiers.

What does the science say?

Researchers have studied whether it helps with chronic low back pain, since it bolsters the transverse abdominis muscles. A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine finds doing Pilates twice a week may help.