Why Core Strength Is About More Than Visible Abs
Let's talk about the core.
Because fitness has always had an aesthetic attached to it.
The 90s gave us skinny culture. The 2000s swung hard in the other direction and celebrated curves. And since the Pilates boom post-COVID, we've somehow landed right back at the size-0 ideal — except now she's wearing an Alo set, drinking a green juice and casually showing off a perfectly flat stomach while telling us this is what "strong" looks like.
And listen...I love an Alo set.
But let's actually think about this for a second.
A flat stomach is not the definition of a strong core.
And I honestly think that's something the Pilates industry should be talking about a hell of a lot more.
Your core can be incredibly strong without being flat, defined or remotely resembling the stomach of the person teaching your class. Genetics, body composition, hormones, nutrition and a whole host of other factors influence what your midsection looks like.
Strength is what your body can do. Aesthetic is what your body looks like. They're not the same thing.
What Should I Wear to Pilates?
Let's start with what everyone is really wondering.
No...
You don't need the matching workout set.
You don't need the trendy socks.
And absolutely nobody is judging your outfit.
We promise.
How Many Times Per Week Should I Do Pilates as a Beginner?
When I first started working out during my senior year at Michigan State, I thought the only way I'd see results was if I worked out every single day.
Then one of my friends convinced me to join an eight-week fitness challenge.
The commitment?
Just two classes a week.
I'll admit...I laughed.
Two workouts? That wasn't going to change anything.
Fast forward eight weeks, and not only had those two workouts become one of my favorite parts of the week, but they completely changed the way I looked at fitness.
Because I learned something I still tell clients today:
You don't need to do more. You need to do what you can actually sustain and then build from there.
Should I Do Cardio or Pilates First?
If you've ever combined running, walking, cycling, or another form of cardio with Pilates-inspired strength training, you've probably asked yourself:
Should I do cardio or Pilates first?
The answer depends on your goals.
If your goal is improving endurance for a race or specific athletic event, your cardio workout may take priority.
But if your goals include:
Building lean muscle
Improving body composition
Getting stronger
Supporting metabolism
Creating more definition
Then Pilates-inspired strength training should usually come first.
And here's why.