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Key Takeaways
There are numerous healthbenefits associated with both Pilatesandweight training.
However, there are differences in how Pilates and weight training affect your body.
Pilates involves functional movement exercises that help improve flexibility.
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In its simplest state, you’re free to do Pilates on a mat with no other equipment.
Much of Pilates focuses on strengthening and engaging the body’s core muscles.
There is also a focus on breathing and flow.
The main Pilates principles are:
What Is Weight Training?
Weight training (also called resistance training) is an exercise that focuses on usingweight to build strength.
Weight training typically involves repetitions of the same exercise in multiple sets.
For instance, you might do three sets of 10 bicep curls holding a 20-pound weight.
A body weight example would be two sets of 20 pushups.
Lifting heavy weights will challenge your muscles and help you build muscle mass.
Pilates exercises are compatible with functional movement.
They focus on endurance, flexibility, precision, and the deep, stabilizing muscles.
Weight training focuses more on increasing strength and muscle mass in individual muscles.
Goal: Flexibility
Pilates is more likely to benefit flexibility than weight training.
It is a whole-body approach that focuses on control and stabilizing movements.
Pilates is known for its benefits to individuals with lower back pain, which could help prevent future injury.
Weight lifting might be too intense if you’re recovering from an injury.
Goal: Health as You Age
Both Pilates and weight training can help as you age.
If you have specific exercise goals, consider consulting a personal trainer.
They can advise you on the best approach for your needs.
The best choice for you depends on your goals and preferences.
Both types of exercise will help you improve strength, tone up, and maintain general fitness.
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