Can Pilates Really Help You Lose Weight?

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When it comes to weight loss, Pilates may not be the first exercise that springs to mind. You might picture high-intensity workouts or running miles on the treadmill, but Pilates offers its own unique set of benefits that could support your weight loss journey. So, can Pilates help you lose weight?

Pilates and Weight Loss

Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on building core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. Though it is often seen as a gentle workout, it can be surprisingly effective for weight loss when combined with a healthy diet--for the right individuals. Engaging in Pilates can improve your body composition by increasing muscle mass and reducing fat.

However, if you are starting Pilates to get a "Pilates body" you may find yourself disappointed. Pilates was not created with the intention to help individuals lose weight. In fact, a story told in The Caged Lion documents a time when a woman came to Joesph Pilates' gym and when asked why she was there, she responded, "[to get rid of a bulge.]" Joesph responded, "We don't do that here," and shut the door. When she returned she revised her statement that she wanted to learn his exercise method and he welcomed her in.

The Pilates bodies marketed to you is just that--marketing. It is creating something for you to desire so that you want to participate in the method. The truth is that many of the individuals selling you a body type either already had that body type, were naturally blessed, mix in other methods of exercise with their Pilates practice, focus on nutrition or have cosmetic enhancements.

Pilates will improve your body, but if you are just looking to improve the way it looks and lose weight, you may want to take a look at your overall lifestyle and individual makeup to better address that specific goal. Weight loss is a complicated mix of nutrition, hormones, genetics, age, current physical fitness level, etc. It is not as simple as "do Pilates...lose weight." A nutritionist, wellness consultant or doctor may help you determine the right mix to meet your goals.

Wher Pilates could contribute to Weight Loss

Here are some ways Pilates can aid in your weight loss efforts:

• Increased Muscle Tone: While you might not burn a massive amount of calories in a single session, the muscle you build from Pilates helps your body burn more calories even at rest.

• Improved Posture: Better posture can enhance your movements in other physical activities, making them more efficient and effective.

• Stress Reduction: Pilates encourages mindfulness and relaxation, which can help reduce stress-related eating.
  

Some Pilates classes incorporate elements of cardio through dynamic movements or the use of equipment and props to further train with a science-based approach. Working 1:1 can help ensure you are doing the right thing for your individualized goals. Group classes can help you reach your goals, but may not be tailored to your specific needs and have an overall general wellness improvement vs targeted improvements.

Ultimately, to answer the question "Will Pilates help me lose weight?" The unsatisfying answer is "maybe."