Reformer Pilates and strength training - pairing the two

If you’ve ever wondered whether you “should be doing weights”, the short answer is: probably yes.

And if you already love Pilates (or you’re thinking about starting), pairing it with strength training might just be the most balanced, feel-good approach you can take.

The best part? You don’t need to be strong, fit or confident to begin. Both Pilates and strength training are incredibly adaptable - and when combined, they support your body in the most effective, sustainable way.

Here’s why the combo works so well, especially if you’re new to exercise, returning after a long break, or just wanting to feel stronger day to day.

Is Pilates strength training?

Partly. Pilates builds real strength - especially deep core, postural and stabilising strength - using your own bodyweight and the spring resistance of the Reformer. What it doesn’t do is progressively load your muscles the way lifting does. So Pilates is strength work, but it isn’t a full replacement for strength training. The two cover different ground, which is exactly why they pair so well.

Can you combine Pilates with weight training?

Yes, and most people get more from doing both than from either on its own. Pilates teaches your body to move well - control, alignment, breathing, bracing. Strength training then loads that movement so you build muscle, bone density and power on top of a base that’s already stable. You don’t have to choose. A typical week might be one or two Pilates classes and one or two strength sessions.

How to combine Pilates and strength training

The simplest approach: use Pilates for control and strength training for load, and don’t do your hardest version of both on the same tired day. A sustainable week looks like one to two Pilates classes (Mat or Reformer) and one to two Small Group Personal Training sessions, with at least one easier day between your heaviest efforts. Beginners can start with either and add the other once the first feels familiar - there’s a simple starting path at the end of this guide.

1. Pilates builds control, strength and alignment - the foundation for everything

Pilates (Mat or Reformer) is designed to help your body move well:

• Deep core strength
• Better posture
• Improved mobility
• Better co-ordination and balance
• Waking up underused muscles
• Easing tension and stiffness

It’s the kind of training that meets you exactly where you are - whether that’s feeling nervous, returning after injury, or wanting to build confidence again.

When your body moves well, strength training becomes safer, easier and more effective.

2. Strength training makes you stronger in all the ways Pilates sets you up for

Strength training does things that Pilates doesn’t specifically target - and vice versa. That’s why they’re such a perfect match.

Strength training helps improve:

• Muscle mass (hello stronger arms, legs, glutes)
• Bone density
• Joint stability
• Everyday functional movement
• Long-term injury prevention

These benefits matter at every age and fitness level. You don’t need to lift heavy. You just need progressive load - small increases over time - which is exactly how we train in Small Group Personal Training.

3. Pilates helps your form. Strength helps your power. Together they create real, steady progress.

Pilates teaches you the “how”:

• how to control movement
• how to align joints
• how to breathe
• how to brace and stabilise

Strength training gives you the “capacity”:

• you become stronger
• you build resilience
• you generate more power
• you handle daily life more easily

When you put them together, you don’t just move better - you feel better.

And progress becomes noticeable, not random.

4. Small Group Personal Training makes strength training feel safe, supported and totally doable

Strength training can feel intimidating if you’re new - weights, technique, “am I doing this right?”, the usual worries.

That’s exactly why we run Small Group Personal Training:

• Max 8 people
• A coach who adapts weight, tempo and range to you
• A controlled pace so you never feel rushed
• All levels welcome
• Focus on form and feeling confident

It’s personal training without the intensity of 1:1 - perfect if you’re new to lifting or want guidance while you build strength safely.

5. Pilates + strength = a body that feels supported, capable and balanced

Most people notice changes like:

• Feeling stronger in Pilates planks and balance work
• Better posture at work
• Less stiffness
• More stability in everyday tasks
• More confidence moving through life
• Greater body awareness when lifting weights
• A sense of “I can actually do this”

One supports the other. One strengthens the other. Together they create a routine that’s sustainable and genuinely enjoyable.

Where should I start?

If you’re new to both, here’s a simple path:

Option 1

Start with Mat or Reformer Foundation to build confidence and control.

Option 2

Add Small Group Personal Training 1–2x a week for progressive strength.

Option 3 (our favourite)

Mix the two from the very beginning - even one Pilates and one Strength session a week can create noticeable changes quickly.

Try both with our 3 for £33 intro offer

You can use your intro-offer credits on Mat Pilates, Reformer, Barre, Yoga and Small Group Personal Training, so you can explore what your body loves without pressure. All five run from our pilates studio in Lewisham, five minutes from the station. Credits run for 14 days from your first booking - not from when you pay.

If you’re not sure where to begin, message us - we’ll help you choose the perfect starting point based on your goals, confidence level and schedule.

Here’s to feeling stronger, steadier and more confident every week.