For the uninitiated, Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout focussing on slow, controlled movements aligned with breathwork, with a central tenet of core stability. Developed in the early 20th century by German boxer Joseph Pilates, it originally evolved as a form of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, before becoming popular with New York’s elite dancers and celebrities, spawning a worldwide movement that’s still going from strength to strength over 100 years later.
However, a combination of various forms of exercise and a healthy diet is essential for achieving a toned body.
Pilates can be part of a plan to achieve a toned stomach, but it’s not the only factor. It engages = your abdominal muscles and builds core strength, but it takes more than just exercise to reveal a defined six-pack.
Leg Circles: Tones the inner thighs, glutes, and hip flexors. By maintaining a strong core and keeping movements controlled, this exercise helps sculpt the lower body while improving hip mobility.
We’re often asked, ‘Does Pilates tone your body?’. If your primary goal is to tone your body, Pilates can certainly be an important part of your exercise and health routine.
Strength training exercises help build muscle mass, while reducing overall body fat through a combination of a healthy diet and cardio exercises, can make muscles appear more toned.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not serve to address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on for making any kind of decision-making.
The Reformer also allows for more movement variety, which can help target muscles from multiple angles — a useful factor when you're aiming to can pilates tone your body sculpt specific areas.
Not only are most moves cued from the centre, but there are many flexion exercises, meaning that strengthening the abdominals is part and parcel of a regular practice.”
However, even practicing Pilates once a week can still provide benefits, especially when combined with other forms of exercise.
Combined with a balanced lifestyle, Pilates is a smart, sustainable way to reshape how your body looks and feels.
However, while using the Reformer, weights can be added to some exercises where appropriate. Reformer Pilates is a great way to improve posture and body alignment, which as we’ve said can contribute to a more toned appearance.
At Vitality At Home in Grand Rapids, our Pilates program welcomes adults hoping to regain or improve their active lifestyle after injury or hiatus. We offer personalized attention from certified instructors in a supportive, upscale environment conducive to holistic healing.
Place your bottom elbow directly under your shoulder, with your forearm resting on the mat for support.