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.
Here, we explore what toning actually means, what factors affect how toned we look and how Pilates can assist in reaching your goal of looking leaner.
Trainers will use their best knowledge of not only Pilates, but other mind/body disciplines like Suspension Training, Rebounding and Neurology applied to movement to help restore natural movement and allow you to perform to the best of your potential!
Pilates can help build lean muscle mass, but if it’s covered by excess body fat, those defined muscles won’t be as visible.
But yes – it’s true that a dedicated and consistent practice of Pilates alongside a healthy and balanced lifestyle will likely make you feel stronger and more toned, perhaps even with leaner limbs.
Wall Pilates is a popular variation that uses a wall for support and resistance. It adds new challenges and ways to make traditional exercises harder.
One of the biggest advantages of Pilates is that it strengthens muscles without putting stress on the joints, making it a fantastic option for mind body haus all fitness levels.
We have a variety of group classes; each based on specific pieces equipment. These classes are kept small, so that all clients receive personal, effective instruction. You can learn more about each class by selecting a package and then clicking on the name of the class in the list.
We are unable to match our clients with partners, but please feel free to connect with other clients or invite a friend to join you.
This will work you hard through the supporting shoulder, side of the trunk and also challenge your glutes – especially with the leg lift.
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.
Pilates can be a valuable component of a well-rounded fitness routine aimed at improving muscle tone, but it may be more effective when combined with other forms of exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
"Extend the arms. Lift the opposite arm and leg whilst the chest lifts a little too. Quicken up the pace when you’re ready."
Unlike workouts that isolate just one area or rely on heavy weights, Pilates uses controlled resistance and intentional movement to engage muscles deeply and evenly. The result? Better posture, more definition, and a stronger, more stable body overall.