For the uninitiated, Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout focussing on slow, controlled movements aligned with breathwork, with a central tenet of core stability. Developed in the early 20th century by German boxer Joseph Pilates, it originally evolved as a form of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, before becoming popular with New York’s elite dancers and celebrities, spawning a worldwide movement that’s still going from strength to strength over 100 years later.
However, a combination of various forms of exercise and a healthy diet is essential for achieving a toned body.
Try our free 10-minute Ab Workout and learn the foundations of deep core training. Perfect for all levels, this quick workout will get you started on your journey to a stronger, more toned core.
Let’s face it, we all seem to be more stressed than ever right now – and it’s pelo secret that hardcore cardio workouts can further increase our cortisol levels, sending our stress responses sky high. But we also know that exercise is a known stress reliever. The solution? You guessed it – Pilates.
If you have a layer of fat covering those muscles, then they won’t be as visible – giving the appearance of being “untoned”.
The result is strength without bulk. Muscles become more firm and defined, especially when combined with consistent training and healthy habits outside the studio.
Whilst Pilates isn’t generally considered strength training, we do use resistance, particularly when using Pilates equipment. When you contract your muscles against resistance, your muscles communicate with your brain and vice versa.
With this in mind, we’ve taken a deep dive into the benefits of Pilates according to top instructors and taken a look at their favourite workouts that (among other wonderful things) can help boost tone.
Our instructors incorporate targeted stretches and full-range movements designed to lengthen tight muscles and enhance joint mobility. Proper stretching keeps muscles pliable and joints fluid, reducing stiffness and risk of strains or sprains. Consistent Pilates helps reopen tight hips, improve hamstring and lower back flexibility, and restore mobility for increased agility and ease of motion.
Strengthening exercise to increase the amount of muscle you have is also valuable, since muscle tissue uses more energy than fat.
However, Pilates does not promise drastic weight loss or major physical changes. Results will vary depending on individual factors such lake pilates as genetics
Pilates can be a great option for building strength and targeting specific muscle groups, while the gym offers a wider variety of equipment and exercises for an all-around workout.
Single-Leg Bridge: Targets the glutes and hamstrings. This move also activates the lower back muscles and improves spinal alignment, contributing to better posture and lower body strength.
While not traditionally used for weight loss, Pilates can accelerate fat loss and refine your shape as part of a comprehensive lifestyle plan. Muscle conditioning boosts your metabolism while core engagement and breathing teach mindfulness and self-regulation skills that reduce stress hormones and emotional eating triggers. Pilates perfectly complements a clean eating regimen for safe, sustainable weight loss.