Many people wonder if Pilates is as effective as lifting weights for toning. The truth is, both workouts have their own advantages, but they work in different ways.
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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.
Let’s face it, we all seem to be more stressed than ever right now – and it’s no 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.
Anna Bartter is a freelance journalist who writes about health, fitness and women's lifestyle for publications including Stylist, Metro and Psychologies, among others.
Additionally, it enhances better joint functionality by allowing the joints to move freely and preventing them from jamming. Instructors will also work your eyes, inner ear, and brain to improve coordination and response time, establish spinal stability, and enforce a strong core connection. This technique is useful in enhancing athletic performance, preventing injury, and improving everyday living. Contact Us
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Take note though – not all fat is bad. We need body fat for vital biological processes and to provide a protective layer around our most precious organs. Women naturally have more body fat than men. A healthy percentage of body fat is not less than 14% for women and not less than 10% for men.
One of the things that sets Pilates apart is the focus on precision and control. Movements are done slowly and intentionally—not just to make them harder, but to make them more effective.
Inhale deeply and lift your arms towards the ceiling, beginning to peel your head and shoulders off the mat.
Combined with a balanced lifestyle, Pilates is a smart, sustainable way to reshape how your body looks and feels.
The truth is, neither approach is automatically “better” for toning. What matters most is how you’re practicing: the quality of movement, consistency over time, and the level of challenge being applied.
Pilates is a multi-faceted exercise system focused on core strength, precise movements, proper alignment, and integrative breathing. Classes can be done on a mat or using Pilates equipment to add resistance and variability for more athletic clients. While often associated with dancing and gymnastics, Pilates offers measurable benefits for people from all walks of life.
Place your bottom elbow directly under your shoulder, with your forearm resting on the mat for support.