Is Pilates considered Fitness?

The definition of FITNESS is commonly defined by the World Health Organization, The American College of Sports Medicine, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Strength and Conditioning Association, as improving mobility, building strength or enhancing overall well being. This concept has changed over the centuries, shaped by different cultures, scientists and organizations. It was never discovered by one single person but developed throughout history. The evolution of FITNESS has since then become widely recognized as a key factor in longevity, disease prevention, and quality of life.

So is Pilates Fitness?

It is viewed differently from traditional fitness methods like weightlifting, cardio workouts or high-intensity training. Reason being it focuses on movement quality, not just physical performance. Traditional fitness often emphasizes metrics like strength, endurance and power. Pilates, on the other hand prioritizes controlled movements, core engagement, flexibility, postrure and the timing of movements over maxing out on reps or weight.

Pilates is more about functional strength and the mind-body connection. By focusing on body awareness one can increase mobility and improve strength consistently throughout vs muscle hypertrophy (size gain) or cardiovascular endurance like conventional fitness programs.

Pilates is lower impact and intensity than traditional fitness and this is where many “feel” the intensity like running, jumping or other high impact movements like boxing creates a better all around workout. Having a low impact workout, focusing on precision and alignment, also offers an intensity in a different way encouraging less injuries, no pain and consistency.

Pilates is often associated with rehabilitation rather than performance which in turn some people “feel” the workouts are more therapeutic even though it requires strength, flexibility, alignment, control and coordination to accurately perform the exercises.

So, is Pilates Fitness? YES, Pilates is a form of FITNESS that builds strength, improves mobility and flexibility, enhances ones endurance and supports your overall wellbeing just like any other FITNESS program. Many professional athletes, dancers and fitness enthusiasts use Pilates to complement their training because of exactly what is stated above and most importantly prevents injury. While it might not fit the traditional fitness mold it absolutely contributes to physical Fitness!