Fitness Experts Say Pairing Pilates With Strength Training Is a Faster Way to See Results
Women's Health
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Fitness experts are now championing the pairing of Pilates with strength training as an effective way to achieve faster results. This combination leverages the core stability and flexibility benefits of Pilates while maximizing muscle-building through targeted strength exercises. The Women’s Health and Men’s Health collaboration, known as Pilates x Lift, offers a four-week hybrid workout program designed to enhance mobility, endurance, and recovery. By blending traditional power moves with Pilates-inspired exercises, this approach not only builds muscle efficiently but also reduces injury risk by improving lifting mechanics and joint protection.
The workout series features a 30-minute session led by trainers Tara Bethune and Marcus Martinez, which includes three blocks targeting lower body, upper body, and then lower body again. Each block starts with explosive strength moves like deadlifts, followed by Pilates-based exercises such as hip bridge walkouts to maximize muscle activation and time under tension. The routine concludes with core-focused rotations and ends with high-intensity burpees for a full-body challenge.
This hybrid approach is particularly beneficial for those seeking balanced fitness outcomes. Pilates enhances core strength and mobility, which are critical for improving performance in strength training and overall movement quality. Additionally, the combination helps with recovery by promoting better joint stability and muscle endurance, enabling safer and more effective workouts over time.
For anyone looking to optimize their fitness routine, pairing Pilates with strength training offers a versatile solution that addresses both muscle building and long-term health benefits. Whether you’re an athlete or a gym enthusiast, this approach provides the perfect blend of challenge and balance, making it a worthwhile addition to any workout regimen.
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Originally published on Women's Health on 2/20/2026