There’s some debate surrounding “is Pilates strength training?”

We chatted with experts to set the record straight once and for all.

That sweating and shaking isnt for nothing, though.

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Pilates can increase balance, mobility, and total-body strength.

But does it count as strength training?

The answer: Yes and no.

Two young women practicing ballet with a teacher in the dance hall.

a certified personal trainer, certified BASI Pilates instructor, and founder ofPilates With Abs

Is Pilates strength training?

With traditionalstrength training, that force comes from a free weight or barbell.

Can you build muscle and strength with Pilates?

Woman doing hip exercises

But if you want to increase muscle size, she recommends a traditionalstrength-training program.

you’re able to absolutely build both muscle and strength with Pilates.

Abby Suskin, CPT

The best strength-building Pilates moves

1.

Cropped image of woman doing lunge yoga pose

TIP

Up the intensity by lifting both arms overhead while extending one leg out in front of you.

Double-leg stretch

Add a challenge to this core staple with light weights.

To lower the intensity, remove the weight and/or keep your lower hip on the ground.

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a certified personal trainer, certified BASI Pilates instructor, and founder ofPilates With Abs

Push-up

This bodyweight exercise builds upper-body strength by working muscles like your chest, arms, and back.

Try one of thesepush-up alternativesthat work the exact same muscles.

Side plank

This exercise fires up your obliques, arms, and hips while also improving balance.

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Modify the exercise by keeping the knees bent and down on the mat.

Roll-up

In a traditional Pilates movement, the roll-up helps to mobilize your spine and build core strength.

Bend your knees or use your hands behind your thighs for support as you roll up and down.

Woman in leggings and bra doing Lunge with Arm Extended Up pose hip opener stretch during yoga session in morning at home.

Add a weight or bar on top of your hips to add more load and make the exercise harder.

Muscle-building requires increased load.

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Woman doing arm exercise without weights while sitting on mat at home.

A woman in sports clothes does yoga or gymnastics at home. Daylight. She smiles

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