With years of experience as a Physical Therapist, Jenna Smith has dedicated their career to helping patients achieve their maximum physical potential and improve their quality of life.
Another way that Pilates may help you to have the appearance of becoming more toned is by improving the way that you carry yourself. As you become more aware of your body you may naturally alter your posture to look longer and leaner.
This is in contrast to contracting and shortening the muscles. This lengthening work (known as ‘eccentric’ training) encourages long and strong muscles. This may help to strengthen without adding muscle bulk.
Many people find the best results come from a mix of both, which is why The Pilates Circuit incorporates both Reformer and bodyweight-based movement into personalized training plans.
But yes – it’s true that a dedicated and consistent practice of Pilates alongside a healthy and balanced lifestyle will likely make you feel stronger and more toned, perhaps even with leaner limbs.
Strength training exercises help build muscle mass, while reducing overall body fat through a combination of a healthy diet and cardio exercises, can make muscles appear more toned.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not serve to address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for making any kind of decision-making.
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.
Not only are most moves cued from the centre, but there are many flexion exercises, meaning that strengthening the abdominals is part and parcel of a regular practice.”
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.
The Reformer is particularly effective for leg and arm sculpting since the added resistance red light pilates intensifies the workout.
While studying and developing functional strength methodologies, I was introduced to The Pilates Method. This was a truly eye-opening experience. After a couple of months of working with a classical Pilates teacher, I was amazed at how my body felt, looked, and responded to all other activities.
Pilates is for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner, recovering from an injury, or looking for a low-impact alternative to traditional workouts, Pilates can be modified to fit any fitness level.
Pilates and yoga both build core strength and flexibility using your own body weight. However, Pilates incorporates more resistance training with Springs and bands to build functional strength.