Barre vs Pilates: Which Workout Is Right for You?
When it comes to low-impact workouts, Barre and Pilates are two forms of exercise that often top the list for those seeking full-body toning, better posture, and a stronger core. But how do you choose between barre vs Pilates, and do you really have to? Both offer unique benefits, target multiple muscle groups, and cater to various fitness levels, but there are key differences that can help you decide which is the best fit for your fitness goals. Personally, I use both types of workouts – I don’t just rely on Pilates, Barre, yoga, or any other single exercise method. Both Barre and Pilates have their advantages and own focus. Let’s break down the origins, techniques, and benefits of each to find the clear winner for you.
I’ve recently posted about the benefits of Pilates and the 6 principles of Pilates, so be sure to check those out as well.
This post is all about Barre vs Pilates.
Table of Contents
The Origins of Barre and Pilates
Barre workouts trace their roots to Lotte Berk, a German dancer who, in the 1950s, combined elements of ballet with strength training to create a workout that emphasizes isometric movements and precise movements. If you’re looking for a dance class, then this is not it. Not only does it use ballet movements, which is where its name comes from, but it also takes elements from Pilates, yoga, and other inspirations. Her method evolved over time, leading to modern barre classes, where a ballerina bar is used to support the body during high reps of low-impact movements, often with light weights or resistance bands.
Pilates, on the other hand, was developed by Joseph Pilates during World War I while he was in an internment camp in the United States. He created a system to improve physical and mental health, focusing on deep core muscles, building core strength, and enhancing the mind-body connection. This method of exercise takes inspiration from all kinds of movement. Pilates later expanded his method with the reformer machine, giving rise to reformer Pilates, though mat Pilates remains a popular option using just body weight and yoga mats.
Key Differences Between Barre and Pilates
Let’s take a look at the differences between these two types of exercises. We’ll evaluate 3 key areas: workout style and focus, equipment used and resistance techniques, and the overall impact on the body.
Workout Style and Focus
Barre classes are a perfect combo of ballet-inspired movements, isometric holds, and light resistance, often using ankle weights or light weights, as well as other equipment to target specific muscle groups. The core section of your barre class will engage your entire body, but the emphasis is on muscle tone, light muscle definition, and full-body toning. An upbeat playlist often accompanies barre workouts, making them a great way to burn extra calories while keeping your heart rate up—almost like adding cardio to your routine.
Pilates focuses on precise movements to target deep core muscles and improve muscular strength. A lot of Pilates centers on building strength in the lower back and addressing a weak core, often using a reformer machine or body weight for resistance. However reformers aren’t required in order to do Pilates. Plus those types of classes are on the pricier side. It’s ideal for those looking to limit long-term joint pain and improve range of motion. Mat classes are much more accessible to all regardless of budget.
Equipment and Resistance
Barre workouts typically incorporate light weights, resistance bands, a mini ball, and a ballet barre for support. Some instructors may even do what’s called ‘center work’ – a portion or all of the workout done without the barre. The low weight and high reps create a maximum burn without much resistance, making it a good fit for those seeking low-impact exercise with a focus on muscle tone rather than muscle growth.
Pilates can vary: mat Pilates relies on body weight, while reformer Pilates uses the reformer machine for much resistance, allowing for a lot of benefits in building core strength. There are lots of instructors that use ankle and arm weights, resistance bands, the Magic Circle (a circle-shaped apparatus used for resistance), stability ball, and mini ball.
Impact on the Body
Both workouts are low-impact, but their approaches differ. Barre’s isometric movements and various positions target the entire body, particularly areas people often want to tone, like the thighs and glutes. A study in the Journal of Functional Morphology highlights barre’s ability to improve muscle tone and burn extra calories through high reps.
Pilates, however, is often the best exercise for addressing lower back pain and building a stronger core. Its focus on proper form and the mind-body connection makes it ideal for those with a medical condition or joint pain. Pilates also draws influence from yoga, emphasizing better posture and flexibility across the part of the body being worked.
Benefits of Barre vs Pilates
Both of these workout regimens have the benefits and advantages. They even seem to intersect with each other in terms of movement since they both take bits and pieces from various workouts.
Barre Benefits
- Full-Body Workout: Barre classes engage multiple muscle groups, offering a full-body workout that enhances light muscle definition.
- Low-Impact Movements: Perfect for all fitness levels, barre is gentle on joints while still providing a maximum burn.
- Mental Health Boost: The lively atmosphere of barre workouts, often shared on platforms like TikTok, makes them a fun way to relieve stress.
Pilates Benefits
- Deep Core Strength: Pilates targets deep core muscles, making it a go-to for building core strength and addressing a weak core.
- Better Posture: The focus on precise movements and alignment helps correct posture and reduce lower back pain.
- Flexibility and Range of Motion: Pilates improves flexibility, especially in reformer Pilates, where the reformer machine adds resistance to stretch the body.
Which Should You Choose?
The big difference between Barre and Pilates lies in your fitness goals. If you’re looking for a fun, full-body workout that tones your body with light resistance and a lot of energy, barre might be the best way to go. Barre is a big surprise for those seeking to sculpt their body without heavier weights.
If your goal is to focus on deep core muscles, improve posture, and address joint pain or a medical condition, Pilates—whether mat Pilates or reformer Pilates—may be the better choice. A Pilates instructor will emphasize the lot of benefits in building strength and flexibility, especially for those recovering from injury.
Can You Combine Barre and Pilates?
For many, Pilates & Barre can be a perfect combo! Combining the two offers the best of both worlds: barre’s high reps and light muscle definition with Pilates’ focus on building core strength and flexibility. Some studios even offer hybrid classes that draw influence from both, giving you a full-body workout that targets every part of the body.
Final Thoughts
There’s no clear winner in the barre vs Pilates debate—it all depends on your specific goal. Both are low-impact workouts with unique benefits, making them a great way to stay active without straining your body. Whether you prefer the ballet-inspired isometric holds of barre or the precise movements of Pilates, you’ll find a workout repertoire that suits your needs. Try both to see which resonates with you—your body (and mind) will thank you!
