In today’s world, where many of us spend countless hours hunched over screens and devices, finding an exercise routine that strengthens the body while improving posture and mindfulness has never been more important. One such practice that continues to grow in popularity is Pilates — a method known for its controlled movements and whole-body benefits.
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what Pilates is really all about, we visited Club Pilates in Wicker Park and spoke with Linda, a seasoned instructor, about why this method stands out and how it can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels.
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is more than just an exercise class — it’s a carefully designed method of movement that focuses on lengthening and strengthening muscles from the core outward. Developed by Joseph Pilates during World War I as a form of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, the practice has evolved but stayed true to its origins: every exercise connects back to the core and emphasizes mindful control.
“Each exercise you do in Pilates is done with intention and precision,” Linda explains. “The goal is not only to work the muscles but to train your body to move safely and efficiently, both in class and in daily life.”
The Many Benefits of Pilates
So, what makes Pilates so beneficial? At its heart, the method is all about building a strong core — the powerhouse of the body — and improving alignment and posture. This focus is particularly valuable today, as our modern lifestyle often leaves us hunched over desks, steering wheels, and cell phones.
“When you strengthen your deep abdominal muscles, you naturally stand taller,” Linda says. “Better posture leads to better alignment, which reduces strain on the body and boosts your overall confidence.”
In addition to strengthening the core, Pilates movements also train the entire body to work as a coordinated system. The exercises are low-impact yet highly effective, improving flexibility, balance, and body awareness.
Because every movement is done with control and concentration, students learn to move with greater safety and efficiency — skills that translate beyond the studio and into everyday life, from lifting groceries to sitting at a desk with better posture.
Pilates Is for Everyone
One of the greatest strengths of Pilates is its accessibility. Whether you’re a complete beginner, an older adult looking to stay active, or an athlete recovering from an injury, Pilates can be adapted to fit your needs.
“It really is for everybody,” Linda says. “Every exercise can be modified or intensified depending on your fitness level and goals.”
A Look Inside a Pilates Session
Curious about what a Pilates session looks like? In our visit, we got a chance to try a few classic moves on the Pilates reformer — a specialized piece of equipment that uses springs and pulleys to add resistance and support.
First up was the “chest expansion,” an exercise that strengthens the upper back and shoulders while engaging the core. Holding onto straps, the arms extend back with an exhale, then the head turns from side to side before the arms return to the starting position — all done with slow, controlled movement.
Next came a seated row, where straps are crisscrossed for added challenge. Sitting tall, the arms pull back while the shoulder blades squeeze together, retraining the upper back muscles to work properly. A twist is added to increase core engagement and improve spinal mobility.
Finally, we moved to the “swan” — an exercise focused on spinal extension. Lying face-down on the reformer, the hands press into the foot bar to lift the chest and lengthen the spine. This movement counteracts the forward posture so many of us have and helps open the front of the body.
Take Pilates Off the Mat and Into Your Life
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of Pilates is its emphasis on taking what you learn in the studio and applying it to your daily life. Joseph Pilates himself envisioned his method as a way to live better — not just move better.
“Pilates teaches you to connect breath with movement, to move with intention, and to be aware of your posture and alignment throughout the day,” Linda says. “These are things you carry with you long after you step off the reformer.”
So whether you’re looking to build strength, improve your posture, or simply move through life with more confidence and ease, Pilates offers a path to better health from the inside out.
If you’re ready to get motivated to move, grab a mat, find a studio near you, or explore beginner classes online. Your body — and your mind — will thank you for it.