What is Pilates? Pilates is a form of movement created in the 1920’s by a man named Joseph Pilates. The practice incorporates an accumulation of physical exercises with a system of resistance springs and special apparatus used to enhance things like posture, strengthening, stretching, and mental awareness. A lot of Pilates practice started with athletes—particularly with boxers. Pilates has been widely used all over the world for rehabilitation and cross-training for athletes