Whilst Pilates isn’t so good at building muscle bulk or power, what it is great at is utilising your postural muscles. These are deep muscles that tend to be closer to the skeleton that hold us up against gravity and provide stability around the joints whilst we are moving.
Pilates may provide noticeable changes in your body within a few weeks or months of consistent practice. However, the speed of change will vary, depending on factors such as your current fitness level, frequency and intensity of Pilates sessions, daily caloric intake and overall lifestyle habits. Consistency is key to seeing results from any exercise program.
Pilates can be part of a plan to achieve a toned stomach, but it’s not the only factor. It engages = your abdominal muscles and builds core strength, but it takes more than just exercise to reveal a defined six-pack.
Pilates can support your quest to eat healthy, as it has a mindfulness component that can help you make more conscious choices about the food you eat.
If you’re a fan of high-intensity cardio workouts like HIIT, you might be wondering why you should bother with a slower, more holistic practice.
The result is strength without bulk. Muscles become more firm and defined, especially when combined with consistent training and healthy habits outside the studio.
In choosing exercise, activities that increase your heart rate and get you out of breath are more effective at helping weight loss.
While traditional Pilates doesn’t use heavy weights, it incorporates resistance—especially with equipment like the Reformer—and focuses on eccentric muscle contractions (lengthening under tension), both of which can strengthen muscles.
One-on-One Sessions are by far the most effective way to practice Pilates/Suspension Training. The instructors will create a customized program based on your health, goals, and ability, and will re-evaluate your progress from time to time to make sure results are obtained.
I remember the day one of my clients walked into my office, frustrated. “I’ve been running and dieting for months,” she said, “but my body still looks the same. I just want to look toned—will Pilates help?”
Pilates is great for improving general body awareness and this is helpful for improving your form and technique when you are doing other types of exercise.
Exercises that target multiple muscle groups, mindfulness in food choices, and a well-rounded fitness routine can all work together to give you the toned physique you desire.
One of the great things about Pilates is that it can target a variety of muscle groups, all while using your own body weight as resistance.
So, if pilates and toning you’ve been wondering whether Pilates can truly transform your body—the answer is yes. The only thing left to do is try it for yourself.