* Aim. Motor activities for keeping fit mainly aim to promote education through and for movement, and also to shape public opinion towards knowing and appreciating the benefits of practicing them to maintain health. One of the motor activities which is increasingly developing at a global and national level is "Pilates", a method of complex body conditioning, which involves harmonization of the relationship between body and mind. Also called "intelligent gymnastics", Pilates method can be

more »

... ed by anyone, regardless of age, gender or physical fitness. Pilates increases muscle tone, joint mobility, improves posture, blood flow, and reduces stress levels. It is therefore an excellent workout for all those who want a beautiful and healthy body, in harmony with their mind: performance athletes, people who want to keep fit, pregnant women and new mothers, persons with minor joint disorders, etc. The practice of Pilates using specific apparatus brings an extra value to method application, because its construction and the varied range of motor intervention possibilities ensure better localisation of movement, control over the muscle activity and biomechanics of motion, posture correction and improvement of balance, of inter-muscular and intersegmental coordination. Purpose of the research. The purpose of our theoretical approach is to argue the value and benefits of exercises performed on Pilates apparatus for people willing to improve their lifestyle by consistently practicing motor activities that help them stay fit. Conclusions.Pilates equipment increases the interest in movement, stimulates active and conscious participation,thedesire for correct execution and success. Exercises using different Reformer types provide variety and ensure better action on the movement parameters (accuracy, direction, range of motion, degree of tension and relaxation), in parallel with the development of motor abilities, prevention/correction of physical disabilities, while inducing a general state of wellbeing.