Is Pilates enough for strength? (Short answer: often, yes!)

I get this question a lot… “is Pilates enough for strength training?”

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on where you’re starting from and what your body needs right now!

If you haven’t been moving much lately?

Pilates is absolutely the type of strength you need!

Those gentle but effective bodyweight exercises provide exactly the load your joints, bones, muscles and tendons are craving (yes, they actually love it!). When you're starting out or getting back into movement, your body doesn't need heavy weights. It needs consistent, mindful movement that builds strength gradually and safely.

If you’re already pretty active?

Pilates becomes your nurturing foundation.

If you've been running, hitting the gym, or lifting heavy weights, Pilates is more of a step back for you. Giving your body that beautiful mix of strength and stretch while keeping your mobility in check. It's the perfect complement to your more intense training.

When might you need something extra?

There's a lot of advice out there about making sure you get your "strength" workouts in, especially as we get older. It can feel confusing!

But here's my simple rule: if you can do all the hardest Pilates moves and still feel like the class is too easy, THAT's when you might need to step it up to something heavier like weights at the gym - or even just adding heavier weights (or reformer springs) to your Pilates workout.

But if you're just starting out? Pilates is the perfect place to keep your body functioning, happy, healthy and strong! Don't let anyone tell you it's not "enough". Your body will tell you when it's ready for more.

The most important thing isn't whether you're doing the "perfect" type of exercise, it's that you're moving consistently in a way that feels good for your body right now.

Are you ready to bring some Pilates into your life?

Whether you want to mix Pilates into your strength routine for more flexibility and mobility balance, or you're at the beginning of your journey re-prioritising your body.

Club Nest Online Pilates has something for every BODY… and here’s a sneaky heads up: Club Nest will only be taking new members one more time in 2025. So if you’ve been thinking about making a change for YOU, jump on our waitlist for early access AND a special offer!

And if you haven’t already, sign up to one of our FREE live online Pilates classes in October.