Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise for anyone wanting to improve their ‘core’ and general body strength.  ‘Core’ muscles are deep muscles which subconsciously provide stability to the back, pelvis, hips, and abdomen.  The main ‘core’ muscles are made up of the diaphragm, transverse abdominals, pelvic floor, multifidus, erector spinae, rectus abdominus, and the internal and external obliques.  If these muscles are strong and activate correctly, they allow the more superficial body muscles to function more efficiently.  This can reduce the risk of injury and compensatory malalignments throughout the body, as well as the aches and pains that come with them.