Many people are unaware that the Pilates method’s initial development began as a tool for rehabilitation. During World War I, Joseph Pilates began working with bedridden soldiers by aiding them through specific exercises in regaining their strength, balance and muscle control that was lost due to injury and illness while fighting the war. The initial development of the Pilates equipment used today was also developed during this time.

Today the Pilates method as a tool for rehabilitation is increasingly growing as the popularity of the Pilates method becomes more mainstream and the inherent rehabilitative roots of the Pilates method becomes more widely known. Increasingly sports medicine, physical therapy, sports trainers and chiropractors are embracing the Pilates method as a respective tool for rehabilitation. Certified Pilates trainers are increasingly working in conjunction with these practices in aiding clients and patients in obtaining the optimum results from their rehabilitation.

Pilates for rehabilitation strengthens the muscles of the body without straining them. It provides a low impact and effective source of movement, stretch and strengthening that works holistically and intrinsically to treat and correct the source of the problem. The Pilates method of body conditioning emphasizes developing proper alignment, core and deep postural muscles, in addition to promoting flexibility, body awareness, and correction of muscle/ skeletal imbalances and weakness. As a result the Pilates method is not only a great method for rehabilitation but in providing essential tools in injury prevention that can be utilized throughout all stages and activities of life.