The science
Helps to reduce BMI
After 12 weeks of Pilates training, participants showed a significant decrease in BMI, indicating potential benefits for weight management.
[https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7992419/]
Significant increase in muscle mass
Twelve weeks of Pilates improved muscle strength and dynamic balance in postmenopausal women.[https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5005852/.]
Regulates blood pressure post exercise
Pilates exercise helps regulate blood pressure, particularly by reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults with elevated levels.
[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30707138/]
Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
Pilates significantly reduced depression and anxiety symptoms in women, supporting its use as a helpful complementary treatment for mental health.
[http://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10578749/]
Reduced 'fall risk' for elderly users
Once-weekly Pilates Reformer sessions over 10 weeks significantly improved balance, mobility, and joint movement in older adults at risk of falling.
[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30368346/]
Beneficial in pregnancy
Pilates during pregnancy was linked to higher rates of vaginal delivery, fewer C-sections, and less weight gain compared to controls, based on analysis of 13 studies involving 719 women.[https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10219711/]