Is Pilates Reformer Good for Weight Loss?
Pilates is often praised for its posture, strength, and flexibility benefits — but what about weight loss? If you're wondering whether Reformer Pilates can help you shed kilos and tone up, you're not alone.
The short answer: yes, Reformer Pilates can be an effective part of a weight loss routine, especially when combined with a healthy diet and consistent movement. It builds lean muscle, supports fat burn, and keeps your joints safe while training.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- How Pilates Reformer supports weight loss
- What results to expect
- How it compares to cardio
- Whether home reformer workouts are effective
Does Reformer Pilates Burn Calories?
Reformer Pilates is low-impact but high-intensity. It focuses on slow, controlled movements that keep your muscles under tension longer — which increases your calorie burn.
Depending on your body weight, intensity, and class duration, you can burn between 250–450 calories per hour doing Reformer Pilates. That’s similar to brisk walking or low-impact aerobics.
But unlike cardio, Pilates builds lean muscle mass — which improves your resting metabolism and helps your body burn more calories 24/7.
How Reformer Pilates Helps With Fat Loss
- Increases muscle tone: More muscle = more calorie burn at rest
- Improves posture: Helps you stand taller and look leaner
- Activates the core: Strengthens deep abdominal muscles
- Supports consistency: Low impact = fewer injuries, more training days
According to Healthline, Pilates helps improve strength, flexibility, and overall body composition — making it a great long-term approach to fat loss.
Reformer Pilates vs Traditional Cardio
Cardio burns more calories in a single session — but Pilates builds lean muscle, improves joint function, and tones your body in ways cardio can’t. Ideally, the two should complement each other.
| Workout | Calories Burned (1 hr) | Main Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Reformer Pilates | 250–450 | Muscle tone, mobility, core strength |
| Running | 500–700 | Cardiovascular fitness |
| HIIT Training | 600–900 | Fat burn & endurance |
Can You Lose Weight at Home With a Pilates Machine?
Absolutely — especially with today’s foldable Pilates reformers. You don’t need a studio to get professional results. With just 30–45 minutes, 3–4 times per week, you can build strength, improve body composition, and support healthy fat loss.
One of the biggest benefits? Consistency. A home setup means no commute, no class bookings, and no excuses. That alone helps many people train more often — which leads to better results.
Bonus: If you ever decide to become an instructor, you can get certified via our Pilates reformer certification — all online and instructor-led.
FAQs – Pilates Reformer & Weight Loss
Can I lose belly fat with Reformer Pilates?
Yes, especially when combined with healthy eating and regular workouts. Pilates activates deep core muscles and supports overall fat reduction.
Is Reformer Pilates enough for weight loss?
For many people, yes. It's low impact, high resistance, and improves metabolic function. Adding light cardio or step goals can increase results further.
How quickly will I see results?
Most people notice changes in 3–6 weeks with consistent training. Expect improved strength, posture, and leaner muscle tone first — then body composition shifts.
How often should I use my reformer at home?
3–4 sessions per week is ideal. Home reformers like our Foldable Eco Pilates Reformer are built for regular, long-term use.
Final Thoughts
Reformer Pilates is an excellent, sustainable option for weight loss — especially for people who want low-impact, high-result movement that also tones, strengthens, and improves daily life.
Whether you're just starting out or want to level up your fitness journey, a Pilates reformer machine is one of the smartest investments you can make — and you don’t need a studio to see the benefits.
👉 Ready to train at home?
Check out our Foldable Eco Reformer — compact, smooth-gliding, and ideal for weight loss and strength training at home.
