Does Pilates Help You Lose Weight?
Georgia Gurzick
| 3 min read
Pilates is a popular workout that can strengthen your core, improve balance and aid in mindfulness.
While Pilates may not burn as many calories as high intensity workouts, it is known for building lean muscle and boosting metabolism. Will those factors help you lose weight?
What is Pilates?
Pilates is an adaptable, low impact workout that activates the core, enhances flexibility, improves strength and posture and prevents injury. This workout is better for improving muscle tone than for building muscle, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
You can do Pilates on a mat using your body weight or with specialized equipment such as a reformer. This machine is seven to eight feet long and includes a carriage that wheels from side to side, resistance bands and platforms. Pilates classes often incorporate these machines to target specific muscle groups and to encourage slow, controlled movement. It’s designed to be adaptable to various physical abilities and injuries; German physical education Joseph R. Pilates created the exercise to aid soldiers recover after World War I.
Does Pilates help with weight loss?
The best workouts for weight loss include aerobic exercises such as walking, running, cycling and swimming and weightlifting, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pilates can contribute to weight loss by helping build lean muscle, which aids in burning more calories, according to Harvard Health. Using resistance bands as part of a Pilates workout can increase the strength training aspect of this exercise and help you burn calories even after the workout.
Pilates doesn’t burn as many calories as cardiovascular exercise, but it is a healthy way to work out and can be especially beneficial for those who need low-impact or adaptable exercise.
Another benefit is the effect it has on body alignment and posture. Pilates can help ease tension in muscle groups such as the abdominal, back, pelvic and glute muscles. This exercise may help improve back pain in some people, and the abdominal muscles you can build in Pilates may help you with long term coordination and balance.
Pilates also teaches proper breathing control, which can help reduce fatigue and promote focus in daily life.
Tips for maximizing weight loss with Pilates
One way to increase weight loss is to do Pilates alongside other healthy habits. Regular walking, biking, swimming, running or weightlifting and a weekly Pilates class or two can provide a well-rounded exercise routine that targets strength, cardiovascular health and caloric burn. Consistency plays a key role in seeing results as it helps to boost stamina and build lean muscle over time.
Another key component to maximizing weight loss is fueling your body with proper nutrition. Protein is especially important because it helps build and repair muscle tissue after hard workouts, according to the Mayo Clinic. Stay hydrated, which supports digestion, muscle function and energy levels.
If you are interested, you can find Pilates classes at gyms, studios or online. Talk to your primary care provider before starting any new exercise.
Image: Getty Images
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