Pilates vs Strength Training – Which Is Best?

Exercise is one empowering way to take care of your health. When choosing your workouts, consider your overall fitness goals and develop a balanced routine. Keep reading to find out whether Pilates or strength training is best for you.

Pilates

Pilates uses controlled breathing, gentle stretches, and strengthening movements to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. Pilates targets the abdominal, lower back, hip, and pelvic muscles. You can easily customize this low-impact exercise to meet your fitness goals. Pilates can be the right option for you if you want to improve your flexibility and strengthen your core.

Pilates also promotes developing a mind-body connection. As you do the exercises, you should focus on your breathing and stay aware of how your body moves and feels. Many people use Pilates to improve their mindfulness and overall well-being.

Strength Training

Strength training reduces body fat and increases muscle mass. Strength training uses resistance from weights to create these changes. You can strength train without equipment by using your own body weight, and performing exercises such as pushups and planks. Popular strength training equipment includes resistance tubing, weight machines, and free weights.

When you begin strength training, choose weights heavy enough to challenge you but light enough for you to keep the correct form. If you want to gain muscle mass throughout your body, strength train for the best results.

Cross-Training Benefits

When considering whether it’s best for you to do Pilates or strength training, you might not need to choose between the two. Pilates and strength training improves your overall health, and you can use both types of exercise or cross-train to achieve your fitness goals.

Cross-training can give you the benefits of both forms of exercise. You can improve your flexibility and mobility and gain muscle mass throughout your body by incorporating both forms of exercise. And variety can help you stay engaged in your workout routine.

Whether you choose Pilates, strength training, or cross-training, let Beyond Balance support your fitness journey. Use our gymnastics stall bars for stretching, bodyweight resistance training, and more. Shop with us today.