Whilst Pilates isn’t so good at building muscle bulk or power, what it is great at is utilising your postural muscles. These are deep muscles that tend to be closer to the skeleton that hold us up against gravity and provide stability around the joints whilst we are moving.
Exhale as you continue to roll up, reaching forward towards your toes while keeping your legs straight.
By targeting various muscle groups through different Pilates exercises, you can help build lean muscle mass throughout your body for a more toned appearance.
Pilates improves the way you move. When you move well your movement efficiency improves. Efficient movement will help all types of exercise be more effective.
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.
We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
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 pelo external resistance, mat workouts often demand more from your stabilizing muscles, which can improve functional strength and endurance.
While traditional Pilates doesn’t use heavy weights, it incorporates resistance—especially the body studio for fitness with equipment like the Reformer—and focuses on eccentric muscle contractions (lengthening under tension), both of which can strengthen muscles.
It’s a real plus that she comes to our home or my office which saves lots of time and allows me to focus on doing the stretches and exercises the right way because I have supervision. Her weekly plans are clear, concise, and well thought out, which I think, is why my progress has been so remarkable. I’m three months post op and my flexibility is mostly returned and I have very little residual pain. I’m looking forward to continuing to do all of the things that I’ve done my whole life. I would encourage anyone to give Vitality at Home a try for your long term health!
Athletes love using our Springboard and Reformer equipment to safely increase flexibility. Our Tower Circles open up the shoulders and thoracic spine, combatting poor posture and freeing up your breath. Regain your range of motion with Pilates!
The Reformer is particularly effective for leg and arm sculpting since the added resistance intensifies the workout.
The truth is, neither approach is automatically “better” for toning. What matters most is how you’re practicing: the quality of movement, consistency over time, and the level of challenge being applied.
Whilst Pilates theoretically is not the quickest route to increasing muscle mass, anecdotally many people do feel that they look more ‘toned’ when they do Pilates. There are a few reasons why this may be.
Exhale and circle your arms around to grasp your shins again, drawing your knees back into your chest.