In today’s fitness scene, is anything more buzz worthy than Pilates? This workout, beloved by celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Harry Styles, has skyrocketed to the forefront of 2024’s exercise trends. From Reformer to classical, physio-led, and more, Pilates classes offer something for everyone. With its impressive health benefits, it’s no surprise it’s all the rage. But here’s the burning question: does at-home Pilates in deliver the same muscle-toning and strength-building results as in-person classes?
It’s a valid query. While attending a fancy studio with top-notch equipment sounds appealing, many coaches argue that you don’t need to splurge on in-person classes to enjoy the perks of Pilates. Post-pandemic, accessing high-quality workouts from the comfort of our homes has never been easier or more affordable. With Pilates being one of the more accessible options for at-home sweat sessions, all you need is a mat to get started.
But can 20-minute or 30-minute Pilates routines at home truly rival the benefits of in-person classes with hands-on instructors for guidance and motivation? While we hope so, we wanted to hear from top Pilates experts for their honest assessment.
Does at home Pilates work as effectively as going to a class? Experts weigh in
What exactly is at-home Pilates?
For those unfamiliar, as the name implies, you practise Pilates in the comfort of your home, office, or any chosen space. It can be as straightforward as you desire, requiring no special equipment or attire to begin.
“At-home Pilates involves practising Pilates exercises in your home environment,” explains Pilates instructor Alexsandra Warburton. “This can be guided by online classes, pre-recorded videos, or personalised routines from your favourite instructor. While a yoga mat suffices for most, you can enhance your practice with support tools like a softball, resistance bands, hand-held weights, or even a home Pilates reformer.”
@briannajoye_fitness DAY 1 of my 2 week pilates challenge! Will be posting the workout everyday. comment if your going to follow along 🙂 #fyp #pilates ♬ Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
The benefits
Accessing the benefits of Pilates from home has never been easier, thanks to the surge in popularity of at-home workouts. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Convenience: Eliminating travel time and class scheduling hurdles, it allows for quick, hassle-free workouts. “The convenience of at-home Pilates is a major draw,” agrees Warburton. “We can integrate workouts into our schedules without commuting to a studio, making it easier to prioritise fitness even on busy days.”
- Cost-effectiveness: In a period of economic strain, pricey gym memberships or class fees may not be feasible. At-home Pilates offers an affordable alternative. “Pilates classes can be costly,,” notes Warburton. “At-home Pilates proves more economical, especially when factoring in one-off fees, memberships, and travel expenses.”
- Inclusivity: Overcoming gym intimidation, at-home Pilates fosters a judgement-free environment conducive to personal growth. “Accessibility is a major advantage,” affirms Warburton. “Exercising at home removes barriers to trying new exercises, catering to those hesitant to join group classes.”
@amandablauerpilates I always post about this, but breaking down WHY Pilates at home has gotten me and my students better results. You can try my classes online if you want to make the switch!! #matpilates #pilatesathome #pilatesinstructor ♬ original sound – Amanda | Pilates Pro
Is at-home Pilates as effective as studio classes?
Now for the million-dollar question: Does at-home Pilates deliver the same results as in-person classes? Well, it depends.
“With advancements in technology and the availability of high-quality online instruction, at-home Pilates has become increasingly effective for many individuals seeking to maintain or even improve their strength, flexibility, and overall fitness level,” says Warburton.
“However, there are some drawbacks to practising Pilates at home. Without a trained instructor present, there’s a higher risk of performing exercises incorrectly, potentially leading to injury. It can also be challenging to target specific muscle groups effectively without proper guidance.”
It’s worth noting that highly trained instructors in live classes can offer modifications for injuries or specific conditions. So, if you’re new to Pilates or have unique needs, starting with a class might be the way to go.
In the end, the most effective form of exercise is the one you’ll stick to. Whether you prefer the convenience of at-home workouts or thrive in the studio environment, the key is finding what works for you.
“All movement forms can be effective and beneficial,” says Warburton. “I believe the sweet spot lies in a blend of at-home and in-studio practice. With proper guidance from experienced instructors through online classes, videos, or preset exercises, individuals can achieve significant results at home.”
So, whether you’re already a Pilates pro looking to switch up your routine or a newbie eager to give it a try, there’s a workout out there for you. The important thing is to enjoy the journey, whether you’re rolling up to class or rolling out your mat at home.
3 at-home Pilates workouts to try today
Ready to get your Pilates on? Here are three workouts to kick-start your journey:
Pilates for beginners: Perfect for newcomers, this easy-to-follow flow requires nothing more than a sports bra and twenty minutes of your time. It’s a gentle introduction to Pilates that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and energised.
A banded full-body workout: Target your core, legs, and arms with this quick 20-minute session using just a mat and resistance band. Don’t underestimate the power of these small but impactful moves to sculpt and tone your muscles.
Half an hour full-body Pilates: Ready to step up your game? This 30-minute full-body workout led by Move With Nicole combines challenging exercises with restorative breathwork to leave you feeling strong and rejuvenated.
Whether you’re mastering the art of the roll-up or perfecting your plank, Pilates at home can be just as rewarding as hitting the studio. So, roll out your mat, press play, and get ready to feel the burn!
This article was syndicated from Marie Claire UK
Translated and adapted by Praise Vandeh, Marie Claire Nigeria Content Writer
