For the uninitiated, Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout focussing on slow, controlled movements aligned with breathwork, with a central tenet of core stability. Developed in the early 20th century by German boxer Joseph Pilates, it originally evolved as a form of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, before becoming popular with New York’s elite dancers and celebrities, spawning a worldwide movement that’s still going from strength to strength over 100 years later.
Another way that Pilates may help you to have the appearance of becoming more toned is by improving the way that you carry yourself. As you become more aware of your body you may naturally alter your posture to look longer and leaner.
This is in contrast to contracting and shortening the muscles. This lengthening work (known as ‘eccentric’ training) encourages long and strong muscles. This may help to strengthen without adding muscle bulk.
Yes, Pilates-based strength training can aid in weight loss and muscle toning when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
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:
We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
Mat Pilates, on the other hand, relies entirely on bodyweight and gravity. While it might seem less intense at first, it's highly effective when performed with control and consistency. Because there’s no external resistance, mat workouts often demand more from your stabilizing muscles, which can improve functional strength and endurance.
Take note though – not all fat is bad. We need body fat for vital biological processes and to provide a protective layer around our most precious organs. Women naturally have more body fat than men. A healthy percentage of body fat is not less than 14% for women and not less than 10% for men.
This is where a healthy diet comes into play. By consuming the right amount of calories and nutrients, you can support your body in reducing overall body fat and revealing the toned muscles that Pilates helps to build (2).
It’s a common misconception that you can “tone” muscles. Muscles by nature are lean mass – they can only grow or shrink in size.
Whether you're recovering from diastasis recti or leveling up your fitness, I’m here to guide you every step of the way!
When your breathing works properly, so does the core. When the core muscles work well, so do your other muscles. We can think of it like links in a chain, where each muscle function is interconnected with the next.
Pilates is a multi-faceted exercise system focused on core strength, precise movements, proper alignment, and integrative breathing. Classes can be done on a mat or using Pilates equipment to add resistance and variability for more athletic clients. While often associated with dancing and gymnastics, Pilates offers measurable benefits for people from all walks of life.
GRIT is different because our founder is a male, a former college athlete, and a former professional athlete personal trainer. GRIT is a masculine space, and our community comes pilates grand haven here to handle business. We don't care about your size, knowledge, or outfit.