How many calories can you burn in a Pilates class?

Pilates is one of the most efficient overall exercises you can do. During a typical session, you’ll perform a combination of movements designed to build strength, tone muscles, and improve balance, posture, and flexibility. And, the best part is that it’s a low-impact activity, so it is easier on your joints. You may be wondering, though, if a low impact activity will help you lose weight. This begs the question: how many calories do you burn in a Pilates class?

The answer is not a simple one. Many things will affect the amount of calories you burn, from the pace of your workout, to whether you are doing a mat or reformer class, to your current weight. Why is your weight important to how many calories you burn? A typical mat Pilates class might include squats, lunges, and push-ups. These are all exercises that use your own body weight as resistance, so bigger people will naturally burn more calories. One estimate states that, during a one hour class, the number of calories burned can range from 125 calories for a 120 pound person all the way up to 336 calories for someone who weighs 200 pounds.

Beginner vs. advanced

Other contributing factors are the expertise level and length of the class. Of course, people in advanced classes will be doing harder exercises that require more effort. The more effort that is exerted, the more calories that are burned. Given all of these variables, it’s not possible to estimate the average number of calories burned during a Pilates class.

The fact is, when trying to lose or maintain weight, many things come into play. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, and even the amount of sleep you get at night all contribute. And, when it comes to working out, losing weight is not the only benefit. Exercise is essential to energy level, mood, and flexibility.

Benefits for all

At the Propel Pilates studio in North County San Diego, we can help you work toward your goal of living a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in burning calories, getting stronger, improving your flexibility, or toning your body, a daily Pilates routine can achieve everything on your list. We have weekly classes for every expertise level and private sessions if you want a more individualized experience. Regardless of which you choose, adding Pilates to your routine provides long term benefits.

Call or stop in today, and take the first step toward a happier, healthier you.