Part biography, part history and part memoir, Caged Lion: Joseph Pilates and His Legacy offers readers a special glimpse into the life of the man who invented the renowned exercise program, which is now practiced by more than 10 million people.

This engaging book shares the story of Pilates, who was a prisoner during World War I and immigrated to the United States at the age of 43 to reinvent himself. Author John Howard Steel brings Pilates and his eponymous exercise regime to life from his unique perspective as a student, friend, and confidant.

Steel’s vivid account traces the expansion of Pilates from a small cadre of dedicated adherents through two periods of near-extinction to the global sensation it is today. He also details Pilates’ motivation to discover his system of exercises, his inspirational teaching technique, and the unique attraction of the Pilates Method. 

Caged Lion: Joseph Pilates and His Legacy retails for $15.95. For more information and to purchase, click here.

Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk