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Begin alternating lifting your right arm and left leg, then your left arm and right leg in a swimming motion.
So, instead of making you bulkier, Pilates tones your body by building lean, functional muscle and improving the overall shape of your body.
Pilates emphasizes alignment, control, and posture. As posture improves, the body naturally appears leaner and more lifted. Better muscle engagement and movement efficiency may give the impression of being more “toned,” even without significant fat loss or hypertrophy.
You might notice muscles you didn’t know existed becoming more visible, which can build confidence and motivation to continue your practice.”
“With diverse forms and undeniable benefits, Pilates is a versatile exercise system catering to a broad audience,” says Miller. “Whether you are a seasoned
While traditional Pilates doesn’t use heavy weights, it incorporates resistance—especially with equipment like the Reformer—and focuses on eccentric muscle contractions (lengthening what is pilates for under tension), both of which can strengthen muscles.
Pilates is effective for toning muscles and improving overall body strength. While it primarily focuses on building lean muscle mass and enhancing posture, incorporating Pilates into a regular exercise routine can contribute to weight loss when combined with a balanced diet and cardiovascular activities.
Don’t be put off by it’s cool aesthetic. One of the things we love most about Pilates is that, while it is super on trend, right now, there’s a practice for everyone.
Pilates-based strength training exercises target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, helping to increase muscle mass, which in turn can increase calorie burn.
The focus is on increasing resistance over time, making it the best option for increasing overall strength.
Whilst Pilates theoretically is not the quickest route to increasing muscle mass, anecdotally many people do feel that they look more ‘toned’ when they do Pilates. There are a few reasons why this may be.
Unlike standard workouts that may neglect the deep core muscles, Pilates specifically activates the transverse abdominis, leading to a flatter stomach and improved posture. This results in a stronger, more defined midsection and reduced lower back pain.