Does Pilates Build Muscle? What to Expect From Reformer and Mat Classes

Pilates absolutely builds muscle, but it does it in a different way than traditional weightlifting. Instead of bulking, Pilates focuses on building long, lean, controlled muscle through constant tension, slow movement, and deep core activation.

At Two Sisters Pilates, our Reformer and Mat classes are designed to strengthen your entire body while improving posture, balance, and joint health. When combined with red light therapy for recovery, Pilates becomes a complete muscle-building and recovery system that supports long-term results.

How Pilates Builds Lean Muscle?

How Pilates builds muscle differently from the gym:

• Strengthens deep core muscles that stabilize your entire body

• Uses slow, controlled reps that constantly engage the muscle

• Focuses on proper form & resistance instead of heavy weight

• Builds muscle evenly to prevent imbalances

• Improves muscle tone without adding bulk

This is why Pilates is such a powerful option for people who want strength without stiffness or joint strain.

Reformer Pilates Benefits in Oakville

Reformer Pilates helps you build strength, improve mobility, and move with better alignment. It is gentle on the joints and suitable for all levels, making it a great option for people looking to live an active lifestyle without traditional workouts that can be taxing on joints and ligaments.

The controlled resistance and smooth motions help you feel stronger, more balanced, and more connected to your body after every session, all without risking injury to your joints and ligaments.

Better Core Strength

Stronger core muscles help improve posture, stability, and everyday movement.

Improved Flexibility

Controlled stretching on the Reformer helps your body move more freely and comfortably.

Reduced Back Pain

Gentle, guided movements support proper alignment and ease tension in tight areas.

Low Impact Workout

You strengthen and tone without stressing your joints, making each session safe and effective.

How Our Classes Target Specific Muscle Groups?

At Two Sisters Pilates, class styles target different muscle groups, so you can train with intention.

• Sculpt Classes
Full body muscle building with a strong focus on core, glutes, legs, and arms using resistance and controlled movement.

• Upper Body Classes
Targets shoulders, arms, chest, upper back, and posture muscles for lean strength and definition.

• Flow-Based Classes
Improves mobility, balance, and functional strength through smooth, continuous movement.

• Mat Pilates
Builds deep abdominal control, hip stability, and lower back support using bodyweight only.

Each class builds muscle differently, which allows you to rotate styles and train the full body evenly.

What Kind of Results Can I Expect?

•  Increased core strength within 2 to 4 weeks

• Visible muscle tone in glutes, arms, and thighs within 4 to 6 weeks

• Improved posture and reduced back tension

• Better endurance without joint strain

• Lean, athletic muscle rather than bulk

Reformer vs. Mat Pilates: Which Builds More Muscle?

• Reformer Pilates uses spring resistance to load muscles through a full range of motion

• Mat Pilates relies on bodyweight and gravity for control and endurance

• Reformer accelerates visible toning and strength changes

• Mat excels in deep core activation and mobility

• Combining both produces the fastest, most balanced results

Book Your First Class At Two Sisters Pilates

Getting started is easy, and we are here to make the process smooth from the very beginning.

Step 1: Click the button below to open our schedule and choose a class time that fits your day.

Step 2: Select your class type and create your account so we can get to know you.

Step 3: Reserve your spot and check your email for all the details before you arrive.

We are excited to welcome you into the studio and help you feel confident in your first session.