Reformer based workouts can help develop your strength, mobility and flexibility – without any high-impact strain. It’s an empowering form of body toning Pilates that focuses on functional strength, mindful movement and core connection.
But what specific areas of your body do Pilates exercises actually target? We touched on this in our guide – comparing the Pilates body vs the gym body – and now we’ll get specific, exploring Pilates for toned legs, core development and lower-body refinement. Keep reading to discover how mat and reformer Pilates can elevate every part of your body.
How does Pilates work for body toning?
Pilates tones your body by focusing on controlled movements. Reformer machines provide spring-loaded resistance, to challenge your muscles and enhance your functional strength.
It’s about performing exercises correctly – to give you the most benefit – rather than lifting heavy weights or performing them quickly. Some Vaura workouts incorporate HIIT (high-intensity interval training) to help torch calories and support weight loss. However, our trainers ensure that members maintain proper technique as they gradually increase weight and repetitions.
Which parts of the body does reformer Pilates tone?
Pilates for body toning is about enjoying a holistic fitness experience – connecting you with all areas of your body while developing strength, balance and lean definition.
Below you can explore the key sections of your body that Pilates can target.
Core and abdominals
Your core is at the center of every reformer exercise – and it’s one of the primary areas you’ll tone. Sometimes known as Pilates for tummy toning, abdominal exercises are a central focus for pregnancy Pilates, preparing your body for the changes of pregnancy. Some common core exercises are:
- Plank holds
- Reverse crunches
- Ab curls
Keen to dive deeper? Brush up on our guide to Pilates for core strength.
Legs and glutes
If you want sculpted legs and glutes, Pilates involves many powerful lower body exercises. Pilates for toned legs engages your main powerhouse muscles – like your glutes, quads and hamstrings – to enhance their strength and endurance. Expect to do lower body exercises such as:
- Side-lying leg press
- Glute bridges
- Leg circles
Arms and shoulder
When it comes to your upper body, Pilates and toning go hand in hand, delivering powerful results where control and alignment matter most. It’s about building lean definition while elevating posture and joint support through exercises such as:
- Arm circles
- Chest expansions
- Bicep curls
Back and postural muscles
Posture improvement comes from strengthening the muscles that support your spine. Intentional movements ease stiffness, improve mobility and can even transform your sleep quality. A few effective exercises are:
- Pulling straps
- T-bar rows
- Standing back extensions
Benefits of Pilates for muscle tone and definition
Body toning Pilates activates all your major muscle groups to deliver a toned appearance. Now, let’s go deeper, below you can learn about a variety of empowering benefits that will make you both look and feel fantastic.
Builds long, lean muscles
Pilates for muscle tone allows you to advance your strength without adding bulk. Each movement is designed to activate your muscles in their full range of motion, refining tone and flexibility. This makes your muscles appear longer, which will be most noticeable in areas like your hamstrings, back and calves.
For optimal results, we recommend performing Pilates two to three times per week, allowing time for stretching sessions and adequate rest. Of course, every body is different and results will vary, but consistency is key to achieving results.
Supports joint stability and mobility
Controlled movements and deep stretches are fundamental for improving joint stability. With Pilates to toning, you strengthen the muscles around your joints, enhancing mobility and reducing injury risk – enabling smoother, more confident movement.
Enhances core control
Pilates is great for improving your core strength and by targeting your deep abdominal muscles, you gain better control of complete body movements. Developing your core helps you maintain your stability during dynamic movements and makes each action more efficient.
Suitable for all fitness levels
All Pilates exercises can be adjusted to suit your level of experience or modified to accommodate any body aches or pains you’re experiencing. For example, postpartum Pilates contains gentle workouts that align with your body’s status, providing a comfortable path to return to exercise.
Answering your questions
Whether you’re new to Pilates workouts or are looking to refine your fitness journey, we’ve got the answers to your most common questions.
Does Pilates tone your legs?
Yes, Pilates sculpts your legs through a range of low-impact movements like leg presses and leg circles. By targeting the large and powerful muscles in your lower-body, you can build a defined and balanced appearance.
Does Pilates tone your stomach?
Pilates is most known for it’s focus on core development, which – along with eating healthy – is the most effective way to tone your stomach. Rather than just developing your abs, Pilates exercises improve your posture and make your mid-section more aligned with your body.
Does Pilates tone your arms?
Pilates delivers fantastic results for all upper-body toning. Engaging your arms, chest, upper back and shoulders through controlled and repeated movements. This enhances lean definition and strength without adding bulk.
It’s time to build your dream body with the movements of body toning Pilates. For more ways of optimizing your fitness journey, next learn which one is better – reformer Pilates vs mat Pilates.