Pilates Is Strength Training

If you are an exercise enthusiast you probably have some awareness that your body needs different kinds of exercise: strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility. So where does Pilates fit into the scheme of thing? In short: strength training balanced with flexibility. No cardio, although it beats sitting on the couch!

In Pilates, we are building muscle using spring resistance from the Reformers and Springboards, your own body weight, or both.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind.

In Pilates, we are working from the inside out. Yes, arms and legs get work. They are layered on after establishing a stable core. Newcomers and people with injuries may need to focus mostly on core muscles, with less emphasis on arms and legs, until s/he can stabilize the core. Without stabilizing the core and good alignment, it’s not Pilates. Unlike most other exercise methods, as you get better at Pilates, it gets harder!

Some people want to bulk up their muscles and have heavier loads than what Pilates spring resistance can offer, such as weight-lifting or gym equipment. For the average person who wants all over muscle tone and strength, Pilates offers that and more.

Flexibility is a key piece of Pilates. We are operating on the muscle-balance principle as well as dynamic stretching. Overworked muscles are usually accompanied by underworked opposing muscles. When we balance out any part of the body by strengthening the weaker muscles, we lessen the burden (and tightness) of the grumpy, perpetually tight muscles. Low and behold, core muscles (abs, spine, glutes, inner thighs) take the burden off tight quads, hamstrings, necks, and shoulders.

As with all strength training, you want to aim for 2-3 Pilates sessions per week. If it’s not possible for you to get to the studio that often, then certainly build a home practice with a handful of exercises that target your biggest needs. It also helps you get the most from your studio time. You can also use those core muscles in other sports or activities! How fast you get to your destination is a question of building your Pilates practice. Consistency matters.