Exercise fads come and go and every year it seems as though there is always some celebrity-endorsed fitness video or get slim quick scheme vying for our attention. But one exercise method that has stayed the distance is Pilates.

Developed by Joseph Pilates in the Twenties, this system of low-impact body conditioning is becoming increasingly popular, with classes for all ages and abilities popping up all over the country.

Pilates focuses on strengthening the body's core muscle strength and improving posture by using simple, flowing movements, low-impact exercise and stretches.

As a child, German-born Joseph Pilates suffered from asthma and rickets, but he was determined his physical problems wouldn't hold him back, eventually becoming an accomplished diver, gymnast and skier, as well as a boxer and even a circus performer.

As time went on, he continued to develop his exercise technique, devising exercises and inventing specialised apparatus to help people improve their muscle strength as effectively as possible.

After moving to America in the Thirties, he opened a body-conditioning studio in New York and word of his revolutionary new method of exercise, which he called contrology', quickly got around.

Before long he counted dancers, actors and famous writers among his clients. Joseph died in 1967 at the age of 87, but his method lived on, and today Pilates classes can be found worldwide.

Many Pilates exercises share some common ground with yoga. Both methods concentrate on smooth, flowing movements and both concentrate on the connection between body and mind. But where yoga often concentrates on stretches, Pilates tends to put more emphasis on strength.

However, the two techniques are considered to be complementary to one another and Joseph Pilates himself studied yoga before he went on to develop his own methods.

Pilates exercises are carried out with slow, controlled movements, focusing on posture, breathing and precision.

Although this may seem easier than other exercises such as high-impact aerobics, in fact, it can be considerably harder, requiring strength and concentration to ensure the exercises are done correctly.

Some exercises use specialist equipment such as systems of pullies or special chairs, others make use of resistance bands and large inflatable balls, but often, classes will be taught using just a mat.

As well as improved strength and muscle condition, Pilates offers many other benefits. By focusing on the alignment of the spine, Pilates encourages better posture, correcting problems caused by hunching over computer keyboards or slumped in front of the television.

By stretching muscles and releasing tension it helps relaxation, reducing the effects of stress and promoting better sleep.

Pilates is also ideal for people who suffer joint pain or those recovering from injury. The gentle, low-impact movements and good posture make it easy on the body whilst at the same time strengthening the muscles.

There are Pilates classes available all over the country, from private specialist studios to public leisure centres. To find a qualified teacher or to find out more about pilates visit pilatesfoundation.com