What Is Pilates? A Beginner’s Guide to the Core of It All

Apr 29, 2025

Layla Flores

If you've ever seen someone lying on the floor with their legs in the air and thought, “What kind of yoga is that?”—you might have witnessed Pilates in action. But Pilates isn’t yoga's quirky cousin. It’s a fitness method in its own right, and it’s been transforming bodies and baffling newcomers for nearly a century.

So, what exactly is Pilates? And why are so many people obsessed with it?

Let’s roll out the mat and find out.

The Basics: What Is Pilates?

Pilates (pronounced puh-LAH-teez, not pie-lates—although a Pilates class may burn off a slice or two) is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on strengthening muscles while improving postural alignment and flexibility.

Developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates—a man who believed that mental and physical health were deeply connected—this method was originally used for rehabilitating injured dancers and soldiers. Fast-forward to today, and it’s loved by celebrities, athletes, desk jockeys, and fitness newbies alike.

At its core (pun very much intended), Pilates is about—well, your core. But it also targets the entire body. It’s not just about abs; it’s about creating long, lean muscles, better balance, and mindful movement.

Mat vs. Reformer: What’s the Difference?

There are two main types of Pilates:

Mat Pilates: Done on the floor using a mat, this style uses your body weight for resistance. It's accessible, portable, and a great place to start.
Reformer Pilates: Performed on a machine called a Reformer, which looks like a medieval torture device but is actually a genius piece of equipment using springs and pulleys to add resistance and support.

Both styles focus on similar principles—core strength, control, concentration, precision, breath, and flow—but with different tools.

Who Is It For?

One of the best things about Pilates is its inclusivity. It’s for:

People recovering from injury
Athletes seeking better performance
Office workers with tight hips and sore backs
Seniors wanting more mobility
New moms rebuilding their core

In other words: if you have a body, Pilates is for you.

What to Expect in a Class

No, you won’t be doing backflips. Expect slow, controlled movements that look easy but will surprise your muscles in the best way.

In your first class, you’ll likely hear cues like “pull your belly button toward your spine” or “lengthen through the crown of your head.” At first, it might feel like you’re solving a riddle with your body, but over time, it’ll click. And when it does—hello, posture goals!

Also, don’t stress about looking like a fitness model. Pilates is more about function than flair.

That said…

What Should You Wear?

Comfort is key, but so is freedom of movement. That’s where EZRUN comes in.

Their breathable, lightweight sports T-shirts are ideal for flowing through your roll-ups and leg circles without overheating. Pair them with sporty Bermuda shorts if you like a bit more length and coverage, or go for their ultra-comfy sweat shorts—perfect for those who want a softer, more relaxed feel without sacrificing mobility.

Sweat shorts are especially great for home sessions or studio days when you want your outfit to feel like a second skin. Flexible, non-restrictive, and sweat-friendly—basically, everything your downward dog dreams of (yes, even if this isn’t yoga).

The Benefits: More Than Just a Workout

Pilates doesn’t just give you abs. It gives you:

Better posture: Say goodbye to slouching and hello to standing tall.
Improved flexibility: Touching your toes might not be a dream forever.
Injury prevention: Stronger stabilizing muscles mean fewer sprains and strains.
Enhanced mind-body connection: Think of it as mindfulness in motion.

And yes, your jeans might fit better too.

Final Thoughts

Pilates may not leave you dripping with sweat or gasping for air, but don’t be fooled—it’s sneaky effective. It builds strength from the inside out, teaches your body to move smarter, and helps you feel more at home in your skin.

Whether you’re stretching it out on a mat or mastering the Reformer, a good session can feel like a massage and a workout rolled into one.

So throw on your favorite EZRUN tee, pull on those Bermuda shorts or sweat shorts, and hit the mat. Your spine—and your sanity—will thank you.