What Types of Exercise Compliment Pilates?

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Pilates pairs well with several other exercise types, depending on your goals. Because Pilates builds core strength, stability, posture, and controlled mobility, complementary workouts usually add what Pilates doesn’t emphasize as heavily: cardiovascular conditioning, heavier strength training, or higher-impact loading for bone density.

Here are the best categories:

1. Cardiovascular Training

Pilates is not typically cardio-intense, so adding heart-rate–elevating activity helps balance your fitness routine.
Good options:

  • Walking or hiking

  • Running or jogging

  • Cycling (indoor or outdoor)

  • Swimming

  • Rowing

  • Low-impact cardio classes

These improve heart health, endurance, and calorie burn.

2. Strength & Resistance Training

Pilates builds strength, but mostly using bodyweight and light resistance. Complementing it with heavier or functional strength work helps increase muscle mass and bone density.
Options include:

  • Weightlifting (dumbbells/barbells)

  • Kettlebell training

  • Resistance bands

  • Bodyweight strength workouts (push-ups, pull-ups, squats, etc.)

  • Functional training (TRX, CrossFit-style movements in moderation)

3. Flexibility & Mobility Training

Pilates already supports mobility, but additional stretching can help recovery and balance.

  • Yoga (Vinyasa for flow, Yin or Hatha for deep stretching)

  • Dedicated mobility sessions

  • Dynamic stretching routines

4. High-Intensity or Interval Training

Useful if you want metabolic conditioning or fat-burn benefits not provided by Pilates alone.

  • HIIT

  • Circuit training

  • Dance cardio (Zumba, barre cardio, etc.)

Tip: If your Pilates practice is intense (e.g., advanced reformer), pair HIIT sparingly to avoid overtraining.

5. Recreational & Skill-Based Activities

Pilates enhances body control, making these feel easier and reducing injury risk.

  • Tennis, pickleball

  • Martial arts

  • Rock climbing

  • Skiing or snowboarding

  • Dance



    At JMP, our team of certified pilates instructors are here for you, whether just starting your fitness journey or enhancing your fitness journey by adding pilates into your routine, we have your back! Open 7 days a week to be available for everyone! 



    Jupiter Massage and Pilates, LLC
    561-529-2093
    www.jupitermassageandpilates.com
    125 W. Indiantown Road Suite#102 Jupiter, FL 33458 

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