PILATES IS STRENGTH TRAINING, HERE’S WHY.
When most people think of strength training, they picture barbells, dumbbells, or machines. But Pilates is quietly redefining what strength training can be — combining functional movement, core engagement, and mind-body awareness to create a full-body workout that builds strength, endurance, and stability.
Why Pilates is Strength Training
Pilates has never been about stretching or flexibility. Every movement in a Pilates class is designed to activate muscles in a controlled, precise way, often under resistance from your own body weight or the reformer springs.
Pilates as a Main Exercise Modality
For those who prefer low-impact, full-body workouts, Pilates can absolutely serve as a primary strength training modality. Unlike traditional weightlifting, Pilates emphasizes controlled, multi-plane movements that strengthen stabilizing muscles and improve body awareness — essential for longevity and injury prevention.
Incorporating Pilates into Hybrid Training
Pilates also shines as a complement to other fitness routines, helping you build sport-specific strength and overall functional performance:
Running: Strengthens core, glutes, and hips, improving posture, stride efficiency, and reducing knee and lower-back injuries.
Tennis: Rotational movements enhance spinal mobility, shoulder stability, and explosive power for better performance on the court.
Surfing: Develops a strong, balanced core, stabilizes shoulders, and improves overall body control — essential for paddling, popping up, and staying agile on the waves.
By incorporating Pilates into your training, you’re not just working muscles — you’re building functional strength that translates directly to your sport and everyday life.
The Takeaway
Pilates is, put simply, strength training. Anyone who tells you otherwise should take a Pilates class. Whether you’re looking to make it your main exercise or integrate it into a hybrid fitness plan, it strengthens your muscles, improves your posture, and equips your body to move better in every part of life.
The result? Functional strength, resilience, and confidence — all through purposeful, feel-good movement.
