Does Pilates help you lose weight? Discover the myths and truths

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Pilates helps you lose weight? We reveal the myths and truths about Pilates and weight loss. Find out everything about the subject here.

Pilates is widely known for its benefits for flexibility, muscle strengthening and improved posture.

But does Pilates also help with weight loss? This is a common question among those looking for new ways to exercise to lose weight.

In this article, we’ll explore the myths and truths about Pilates and its impact on weight loss, helping you understand how this practice can fit into your health and fitness goals.

What is Pilates?

Created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates is an exercise method that focuses on strengthening the core (muscles of the abdomen, back and pelvis), improving flexibility and promoting correct posture.

Pilates can be practiced on the floor (Mat Pilates) or with specific equipment such as the Reformer, Cadillac and Chair.

Does Pilates Help You Lose Weight? The Truth

The short answer is: indirectly, yes.

Pilates is not an intense aerobic exercise like running or cycling, which burn calories quickly.

However, Pilates can contribute to weight loss in several ways:

  1. Muscle Strengthening: Increasing muscle mass raises your basal metabolic rate, which means you burn more calories at rest.
  2. Stress Reduction: Pilates can help reduce stress, which is a common cause of weight gain due to increased cortisol levels.
  3. Improved Posture and Body Awareness: Better posture and increased body awareness can lead to healthier choices and a more active lifestyle.
  4. Complement for Other Activities: Pilates can be combined with aerobic exercise, creating a more complete and effective workout routine for weight loss.

Common Myths About Pilates and Weight Loss

1. Pilates Burns a Lot of Calories

The cruel doubt: to do Pilates helps you lose weight?

While Pilates helps tone your body and improve overall fitness, it doesn't burn as many calories as intense aerobic exercise.

One hour of Pilates burns between 200 and 400 calories, depending on the intensity of the class and the fitness level of the practitioner.

2. Pilates Replaces Aerobic Exercises

Pilates is a great addition to an exercise routine, but it shouldn't completely replace aerobic exercise if your primary goal is weight loss.

The best approach is to combine Pilates with activities that increase your heart rate, such as running, swimming or cycling.

3. Fast Results

Sustainable, healthy weight loss doesn't happen quickly, and Pilates isn't a miracle solution.

Consistency and combining it with a balanced diet and other types of exercise are essential to seeing long-term results.

Additional Benefits of Pilates

In addition to contributing to weight loss, Pilates offers numerous health benefits:

  • Improves Flexibility: Stretching exercises in Pilates help increase flexibility and prevent injuries.
  • Strengthens the Core: A strong core improves posture, balance and reduces back pain.
  • Increases Body Awareness: Pilates promotes a better connection between mind and body, helping with coordination and correct execution of movements.
  • Reduces Stress: Regular Pilates practice can reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.

Conclusion

Pilates, by itself, may not be the most effective method for losing weight quickly.

However, it brings countless benefits that contribute to a healthy and balanced life.

When combined with aerobic exercise and a balanced diet, Pilates can be a powerful tool for losing weight and improving overall health.

Prioritize consistency and take a holistic approach to enjoy the best results.