Pilates has many positive benefits for our health, but is it good for weight loss?  Pilates is a mind/ body exercise method that can improve mobility, balance, coordination and strength.  It’s popular for building lean muscle mass and reducing stress.  Yet, many people don’t consider a Pilates program for weight loss goals.  In this article we’ll cover how Pilates can help you achieve your weight loss goal and 3 tips on Pilates weight loss for beginners. 

Pilates – Is it good for weight loss?

Pilates is a great tool to help you lose weight when paired with other healthy habits.  Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight requires a combination of consistent lifestyle choices.  Diet, strength training and cardiovascular exercise are all needed to lose weight.  Along with these three, getting enough sleep, stress management and a balanced lifestyle all affect our weight.  

Pilates workouts vary in level and intensity.   When practicing Pilates consistently, you’ll build lean muscle mass.  The more muscle you have, the more efficient your body is at burning fat.   Additionally, Pilates is a mind/ body practice, excellent for reducing stress levels.  Reducing stress has many positive effects on our health, like better sleep and regulating hormones.  Both of which play an important role in losing and keeping off excess weight.  

Pilates is great for weight loss, but don’t forget about cardio.  A beginner Pilates class moves slower and may not increase your heart rate enough to achieve a high caloric burn.  An advanced class may.  Because of this, pairing Pilates workouts with cardiovascular exercise that increases your heart rate is necessary for weight loss.  Great cardio workouts include interval training, biking, swimming and hiking. 

You can’t out exercise a bad diet.  Eating healthy portions of nutrient dense, real food is necessary when looking to achieve weight loss.  Understanding your personal daily macronutrient needs based on age, height and activity level helps you successfully reach your goal.  

3 Tips for starting a Pilates program for weight loss

1. Make it consistent

Quick weight loss plans are popular, but rarely effective long term.  If you want to not only lose weight, but keep it off, you have to be consistent.  Joseph Pilates said about starting Pilates;

“In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body”.  

2. Find your favorite Pilates instructor

Every Pilates teacher has their own style and energy.  While the exercises may not change, how someone teaches it, does.  Try different classes and instructors until you find one you click with.  Share with them your goals and invite them into your journey.  Everyone benefits from having support and encouragement when working towards a goal.

3. Feed your body with real food

Diet is crucial for weight loss.  LIke with an exercise plan, avoid fast fad diets.  Think long term.  Consistently eat real, whole food.  Not only will you lose weight, but you’ll sleep better, increase your energy and feel great.  

The Last Thing You Need to Know about a Pilates Program for Weight Loss

Between building muscles and reducing stress, Pilates can be a great way to help you lose weight.  Combined with diet and cardiovascular exercise, you’re well on your way to looking and feeling your best.  To start your Pilates program for weight loss, visit ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates in Peachtree City, GA.  With a variety of classes and instructors, you’ll be sure to find the right Pilates class for you.