Created by Joseph Pilates, this exercise method focuses on core strength, proper postural alignment, and muscle balance. It’s also important that you concentrate on your breathing while doing Pilates, explains an article published in Muscle, Ligaments and Tendons Journal. To practice Pilates, you typically lie or sit on a mat and use gravity to help stabilize your core. The good news is that you don’t have to be an advanced fitness guru to do Pilates. The exercises can be modified for strength and fitness levels.