I am a functional movement coach utilizing a unique methodology to create strength and conditioning programs for the past 2 decades. I have worked with every demographic from rehabilitation clients to professional athletes.
The movements are smaller and more precise than yoga flows. There is also greater emphasis on core control and stability during Pilates exercises. Finally, instructors play a bigger hands-on role in manually cueing proper form and alignment.
By targeting various muscle groups through different Pilates exercises, you can help build lean muscle mass throughout your body for a more toned appearance.
So, rather than toning muscles directly, it’s about a holistic approach to building muscle and reducing body fat for a leaner appearance.
So what do we mean by toned? The term ‘toned’ can have different meanings for different people. Some people use it to mean looking long and lean whilst others use it to mean having good muscle definition. We might also think of it as having a firmer body rather than a softer one.
Emphasizes proper form and posture, which can have long-term benefits beyond just physical appearance
Mat Pilates, on the other hand, relies entirely on bodyweight and gravity. While it might seem less intense at first, it's highly effective when performed with control and consistency. Because there’s no external resistance, mat workouts often demand more from your stabilizing muscles, which can improve functional strength and endurance.
Pilates simultaneously strengthens and stretches your entire body in a low-impact format. Think resistance training meets yoga, with added emphasis on precision and club pilates lakeshore breathwork.
Our instructors incorporate targeted stretches and full-range movements designed to lengthen tight muscles and enhance joint mobility. Proper stretching keeps muscles pliable and joints fluid, reducing stiffness and risk of strains or sprains. Consistent Pilates helps reopen tight hips, improve hamstring and lower back flexibility, and restore mobility for increased agility and ease of motion.
Strengthening exercise to increase the amount of muscle you have is also valuable, since muscle tissue uses more energy than fat.
This includes eccentric training, which lengthens and strengthens muscles without adding bulk. Improved body awareness and alignment also contribute to a leaner, more upright look.
This is known as neuromuscular adaptation. Firing up your muscles in this way is likely to make you feel different and you may experience this as a feeling of being stronger.
Single-Leg Bridge: Targets the glutes and hamstrings. This move also activates the lower back muscles and improves spinal alignment, contributing to better posture and lower body strength.
Being more aware of your body lets you use the right muscles during workouts, which makes them more effective and makes sure your body is working well to tone and shape.