06/18/2026
We’ve all experienced it! But why?!
The shakes aren’t a flaw in your form. Those shakes are your neuromuscular system adapting in real time. Here’s the science…
When you perform a slow and controlled movement under tension (resistance), your motor units (combo of motor neurons and the muscle fiber they activate) are working overtime to stabilize you.
As the more easily recruited (fatigue-resistant) motor units begin to actually tire, your nervous system quickly works to recruit additional ones to maintain control. These rapid alterations in motor unit firing creates a visible tremor — the “Pilates shakes”!
These shakes reflect a high level of muscle fiber recruitment, especially from your deep stabilizing muscles (like the multifidus [muscle along the spine], pelvic floor, and transverse abdominis).
Long story short, the shakes mean your nervous system and muscles are learning to work together under load, improving coordination, stability, and endurance over time!
You’re not losing control — you’re deepening it!
You’re not weak — you’re getting stronger from the inside out!
