Strength Training vs. Pilates: Is one more beneficial than the other?

A comment from Coach Emily:

“Pilates is definitely one of the hottest topics in the fitness industry right now—just like anything else that’s shiny and new.

With so many fitness methods constantly flooding your social media feed, let’s discuss why the latest, sexiest trend may not deliver the results you’re after when done on its own.”

Let’s break it down!

Pilates: The Foundation of Stability and Body Awareness

Pilates focuses on enhancing stabilization and core strength, teaching the body to move with greater control and precision. By emphasizing body awareness, Pilates helps improve posture, flexibility, and overall balance, making it a fantastic complement to any workout routine. 

Strength Training: The Key to Progression and Power

Strength training, on the other hand, is a powerhouse for building muscle, increasing bone density, burning fat, and improving endurance. Unlike Pilates, it relies on progressive overload—gradually increasing the weight you lift to challenge your muscles. This process not only enhances strength and muscle growth but also boosts metabolism. As we gain muscle, our bodies burn more fat, leading to less fat mass and improved overall health. These benefits make strength training a crucial component of long-term fitness and well-being.

The Importance of Balancing Pilates and Strength Training in Your Routine 

If you've recently started Pilates, it's important to keep strength training in your routine. We recommend incorporating strength workouts at least twice a week to support muscle growth, boost metabolism, and strengthen your bones. Pilates is a great complement—it enhances flexibility, builds core strength, and helps prevent injuries, ultimately improving your overall performance in strength training.

By Manager and Trainer, Sophie Hight