Pilates vs Strength Training: Which Is Better for You?

By Fergal Fitzmaurice – Personal Trainer & Pilates Instructor, Pontcanna, Cardiff

When it comes to improving your health, fitness, and physical performance, two of the most popular options are Pilates and strength training. But which one is better?

The truth is — it depends on your goals, lifestyle, and current fitness level. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between Pilates and strength training, and help you decide which is best for you (or how to combine both for optimal results).

💪 What Is Strength Training?

Strength training, also known as resistance training, involves exercises that make your muscles work against a force — usually weights, bands, or bodyweight. Common movements include squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows.

✅ Benefits of Strength Training:

• Builds muscle mass and increases strength

• Boosts metabolism and supports fat loss

• Improves bone density and joint health

• Enhances athletic performance and power

• Helps manage age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)

Best for: reshaping your body, losing weight, getting stronger, and improving physical performance.

🤸‍♀️ What Is Pilates?

Pilates is a low-impact exercise system that focuses on core strength, flexibility, posture, and body control. It can be mat-based or use equipment like the reformer.

✅ Benefits of Pilates:

• Strengthens deep core muscles

• Improves posture and spinal alignment

• Enhances flexibility and mobility

• Supports rehabilitation and injury prevention

• Promotes mindfulness and body awareness

Best for: improving posture, core control, recovery from injury, and reducing stress.

🥇 So, Which Is Better?

Here’s a quick comparison:

Goal	Best Option
Muscle Growth	Strength Training
Fat Loss	Strength Training (combined with cardio & nutrition)
Core Strength	Pilates
Posture & Mobility	Pilates
Bone Health	Strength Training
Injury Prevention	Pilates
Long-Term Functional Fitness	A Combination of Both

🔥 Why Combining Both Might Be Best

With my clients in Pontcanna, Cardiff, I help them blend strength training and Pilates into their weekly routine. Here's why:

• Strength training builds the engine (muscle & strength)

• Pilates fine-tunes the chassis (alignment, control, and core stability)

Together, they:

• Reduce risk of injury

• Improve everyday movement

• Support long-term health and longevity

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💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t have to choose either/or. If you're looking for a leaner, stronger, and more resilient body — a mix of both strength training and Pilates is often the best approach.

As a qualified personal trainer and Pilates instructor in Cardiff, I offer bespoke one-to-one sessions that combine the best of both worlds.

📍 Ready to Get Started?

✅ Book a consultation or📩 Contact me at fitzmauricefergal@gmail.com📍 Located in Pontcanna, Cardiff