Pilates is Functional... it's not just an exercise routine

Pilates strengthens the core, but it does not do so with just isolated exercises for the core. Instead, it adds in other motions while the core is being held stable. The idea of this is to learn to link the isometric stabilization contraction of the core WITH the other movement patterns. In this regard, Pilates is more "functional" than a detached isolation exercise approach. - Joe Muscolino