Pilates is a form of bodywork that was created during World War I by Dr Joseph Pilates, a German inventor, boxer, and dancer. The technique was originally developed to help soldiers recover from war injuries. With the Pilates method, individuals focus on the use and control of specific muscles during body movements. There is also an emphasis on breathing. There are no formal research studies of Pilates in MS. One small study of elite gymnasts found improved strength, jump height, and reaction times after a programme that included Pilates, leap training, and pool training. Another small study found improved flexibility after Pilates training. It is generally assumed that the Pilates method is well tolerated.

Pilates teachers are not regulated in the UK and are not legally required to have any specific qualifications, so it is probably a good idea to ask questions and do some research.

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