Maximizing the benefits of Pilates-inspired exercise for learning functional motor skills

Joseph Pilates (1880–1967) created a system of fitness exercises that are still practiced in a more or less modified form. Within the last two decades, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of such Pilates-inspired (PI) exercises. This paper describes current claims for the effectiveness of PI exercises and comments on their validity. Motor learning principles and findings are applied to make recommendations for using PI exercises to enhance the execution of functional movement tasks. The learning-performance distinction, augmented information feedback, contextual interference, skill transfer and augmented verbal cues are discussed. Finally, suggestions are made for aspiring PI practitioners seeking training and certification.