Pilates (pih-LAH-teez) rhymes with hotties, hot toddies, and hot bodies, but I'll stop here before I find more words that get me lumped into adult sites. Pilates is an exercise technique which evolved from the teaching of Joseph Pilates. It was designed to tone and elongate muscles, especially focusing on the abdominal and back area. It safely reduces lower back and neck stress, improves posture and balance, and increases flexibility and coordination. Using a piece of equipment called the reformer and working on light weights, you can strengthen and tone your muscles to create a leaner, smaller body. For more information about pilates, its history and its founder, as well as some pictures of reformers click here.