who invented pilates

Pilates was invented by Joseph Pilates, a German physical trainer born in 1883. He developed the Pilates method in the early 20th century, inspired by his interest in physical culture, gymnastics, and rehabilitation. He began refining his method while interned during World War I, where he created exercises and used bed springs to help bed-bound patients exercise. After the war, he moved to the United States and opened his first studio in New York in 1926, spreading his system initially called "Contrology" which later became known as Pilates.