I am a functional movement coach utilizing a unique methodology to create strength and conditioning programs for the past 2 decades. I have worked with every demographic from rehabilitation clients to professional athletes.
What people often refer to as “toning” is actually a combination of building muscle and reducing body fat to give the appearance of more defined muscles.
By targeting various muscle groups through different Pilates exercises, you can help build lean muscle mass throughout your body for a more toned appearance.
Pilates can help build lean muscle mass, but if it’s covered by excess body fat, those defined muscles won’t be as visible.
Many people think toning is just about losing fat, but it’s really about muscle definition, endurance, and strength without significant bulk. Pilates achieves this by:
Wall Pilates is a popular variation that uses a wall for support and resistance. It adds new challenges and ways to make traditional exercises harder.
Working out with a friend can be very inspiring and motivational, and at BodyMind Pilates we understand that connection by offering Duet Sessions. Just like Private Sessions, these classes provide access to all the equipment as well as personal training, support, and encouragement from one of our certified Pilates instructors.
Pilates simultaneously strengthens and stretches your entire body in a low-impact format. Think resistance training meets yoga, with added emphasis on precision and breathwork.
It’s a real plus that she comes to our home or my office which saves lots of time and allows me to focus on doing the stretches and exercises the right way because I have supervision. Her weekly plans are clear, concise, and well thought out, which I think, is why my progress has been so remarkable. I’m three months post op and my flexibility is mostly returned and I have very little residual pain. I’m looking forward to continuing to do all of the things that I’ve done my whole life. I would encourage anyone to give Vitality at Home a try for your long term health!
It’s a common misconception that you can “tone” muscles. Muscles by nature are lean mass – they can only grow or shrink in size.
“Pilates works the body as a whole,” agrees Folkard. “Rather than isolating one or two muscle groups, it encourages two-way stretch and strengthening moves that engage many different muscles, creating a balanced workout and increasing muscle mass.”
Any exercise that engages and challenges your muscles can contribute to toning. Strength training exercises, including Pilates, can be beneficial for building lean muscle mass and toning the body.
At Vitality At Home in Grand Rapids, our Pilates program welcomes adults hoping to regain or improve their active lifestyle after injury or hiatus. We offer personalized attention from certified instructors in a supportive, upscale environment conducive to holistic healing.
This is really important for efficient movement and also to help us stand up taller which haus of pilates can help you look slimmer..