09/05/2026
Why Strength Training Matters Alongside Pilates
Strength training supports the body in ways that directly complement Pilates. It helps improve muscular strength, joint support, bone density, and overall physical capacity.
For Pilates practitioners, this matters because stronger muscles can support better control, better endurance, and more confidence in movement. When the body is stronger under load, Pilates exercises often feel more stable and accessible.
Strength training can also help fill gaps that Pilates may not always address, especially if your Pilates practice is lower resistance, mat-based, or focused mostly on mobility and control.
The biggest mistake people make is trying to do everything at full intensity all the time. Pilates and strength training both require recovery, especially when you are working the same muscle groups.
A balanced weekly routine might look like this:
Option 1: Balanced Schedule
Two strength training days, two Pilates days, and one active recovery day.
Taken from Balanced Body, Inc.
I personally weight train 2-3 times per week and I do Pilates 4-5.
