CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A century-old mind-body exercise is now getting the attention of men.
Let's connect the dots.
Everyone from Kevin Durant to Harry Styles is crediting Pilates for its benefits.
The full-body workout centers around exercises on spring-assisted machines or a mat and can help improve muscle tone, flexibility and strength.
Pilates has been around for a century with roots in helping soldiers recover during World War I.
Joseph Pilates brought it to the US in the 1920s where it quickly earned a following in the dance community.
Now male endorsements, are leading to new clients at pilates classes across the country. A sports industry group reports overall participation in the workout is up 10% in the last five years.
Gyms now say men now make up a quarter of all pilates participants. One of the reasons it's becoming so popular is that it's customizable based on your goals and fitness level.
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