The SURPRISING Way Pilates Supports Strength Training
Hey, Gabby here!
I teach both Pilates and strength classes at her Elevated and love them both equally. To me, they’re not two separate worlds. They actually make each other better. When you combine them, you start to see and feel the heightened benefits.
Even before I started teaching group fitness, I always enjoyed lifting weights (and seeing/feelingall those benefits!). But when I discovered Pilates, I feel in love with how it made me feel and how well it complemented my routine. It was the missing piece I didn't even know I needed.
Here’s why I love the combo (and why you will too):
Feel good in your body: The goal isn’t to lift the heaviest, it’s to stay consistent, move well (without pain), and train with purpose. That’s exactly what combining these modalities allows us to do.
Core and stability: Pilates builds a strong foundation through core engagement, alignment and stability. This supports you when you lift heavier weights and helps reduce your risk of injury.
Better form: Pilates teaches you to connect to the right muscles, move with control and stay present. (If you’ve ever taken my class, you’ve probably heard me say “engage your core” or “slow it down.”) Your core gets stronger, your glutes activate more, and you actually feel the movement where you’re supposed to. Maximizing every rep makes your workouts more effective.
Filling the gaps: Pilates targets smaller stabilizing muscles that strength training can sometimes miss. It also corrects imbalances and keeps your body moving well so you can keep showing up.
At the end of the day, your routine should work for you and help you feel your best. if you’re mainly taking strength classes, try adding one Pilates class a week. It’s a great low-impact option that helps you stay consistent while building strength and mobility. If you’re mainly doing Pilates, try adding a strength class or two.
And speaking of complementary classes, you can always try one of the newest classes at her Elevated, like Power Vinyasa or Yoga Sculpt (they’re just as beneficial to adding Mat Pilates to your line up!).
See you in class,
Gabby
M @ 5p/6p | W @ noon | F @ 9a, 10a, 12p
