When it comes to working out, there are so many options available that it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. Two popular workouts that often get compared are Pilates and HIIT. While they may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in terms of their focus, intensity, and benefits. In this blog post, we will explore what Pilates and HIIT are, how they compare, and which one may be better for you.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a low-impact workout that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements. It was created in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates and has gained popularity over the years as a workout that is suitable for all fitness levels. Pilates exercises are typically performed on a mat, and there are also variations that use machines such as the reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda chair.
What is HIIT?
HIIT, or high-intensity interval training, is a workout that alternates between short periods of high-intensity exercise and periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. The goal of HIIT is to get the heart rate up and burn as many calories as possible in a short amount of time. HIIT workouts can be done with bodyweight exercises or using equipment such as dumbbells, kettlebells, or resistance bands.
Is Pilates Considered HIIT?
No, Pilates is not considered HIIT. While both Pilates and HIIT can be challenging workouts, they have different focuses and intensities. Pilates is a low-impact workout that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements. HIIT, on the other hand, is a high-intensity workout that is designed to get the heart rate up and burn as many calories as possible in a short amount of time.
Differences between Pilates and HIIT
Here are some of the main differences between Pilates and HIIT:
- Focus: Pilates focuses on building strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements. HIIT focuses on burning calories and getting the heart rate up.
- Intensity: Pilates is a low-impact workout that is suitable for all fitness levels. HIIT is a high-intensity workout that may not be suitable for beginners or people with certain health conditions.
- Equipment: Pilates exercises can be done with just a mat, or with machines such as the reformer. HIIT workouts can be done with bodyweight exercises or with equipment such as dumbbells or resistance bands.
- Duration: Pilates sessions typically last between 45-60 minutes. HIIT workouts can be done in as little as 10-15 minutes.
Pilates vs HIIT – Calories Burned
While both Pilates and HIIT can help you burn calories, HIIT burns more calories per minute than Pilates.
The number of calories burned during a one-hour mat Pilates session can range from 180 to 250, depending on factors such as your weight and the intensity of the exercises.
A 30-minute HIIT workout, on the other hand, can burn around 300 calories, again depending on the individual’s weight and intensity level.
Reformer Pilates vs HIIT
Reformer Pilates is a variation of Pilates that is done using a machine called a reformer. The reformer adds resistance to Pilates exercises, making them more challenging and effective.
While both Reformer Pilates and HIIT can be challenging workouts, they have different focuses and benefits. Reformer Pilates focuses on building strength, flexibility, and balance, while HIIT focuses on burning calories and improving cardiovascular fitness.
Which is Better Overall: HIIT or Pilates?
Whether HIIT or Pilates is better for you depends on your fitness goals and personal preferences. If you want to improve your cardiovascular fitness and burn calories quickly, HIIT may be the better choice. However, if you want to focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance, Pilates may be a better fit. Additionally, if you have certain health conditions or injuries, Pilates may be a safer option than HIIT.
HIIT or Pilates if you are a beginner?
If you are a beginner, Pilates may be a better choice than HIIT. Pilates is a low-impact workout that is suitable for all fitness levels, including beginners. It can help you build strength and improve flexibility without putting too much stress on your body. HIIT, on the other hand, is a high-intensity workout that may not be suitable for beginners.
HIIT or Pilates for runners?
Both HIIT and Pilates can be beneficial for runners. HIIT can help improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories, which can help with endurance. Pilates can help improve core strength and flexibility, which can improve running form and reduce the risk of injuries.
HIIT or Pilates if you are a senior?
Pilates may be a better choice than HIIT for seniors. Pilates is a low-impact workout that can help improve balance, flexibility, and strength, which can help seniors maintain their mobility and independence. HIIT, on the other hand, is a high-intensity workout that may not be suitable for seniors, especially those with certain health conditions.
Pilates or HIIT: Which is better for weight loss?
When it comes to weight loss, both Pilates and HIIT can be effective, but each has its own unique benefits. HIIT is known for its ability to burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time, making it an efficient option for those with busy schedules. It is also known for its after-burn effect, where the body continues to burn calories at a higher rate even after the workout is over. HIIT’s high-intensity nature also means that it can help improve cardiovascular fitness, making it a great option for those looking to improve their overall health.
On the other hand, Pilates is a low-impact workout that focuses on building core strength and stability. While it may not burn as many calories as HIIT, it can help you build lean muscle mass, which can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories at rest. Pilates can also help improve flexibility, balance, and posture, which can make everyday movements easier and reduce the risk of injury.
In terms of which is better for weight loss, it ultimately depends on your goals and preferences. If you are looking for a high-intensity workout that burns a lot of calories, HIIT may be the better option for you. If you prefer a low-impact workout that helps you build strength and lean muscle mass, Pilates may be the better choice.
It’s also worth noting that both Pilates and HIIT can be combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle to maximize weight loss results. By incorporating both workouts into your routine, you can enjoy the benefits of both and find a routine that works best for you.
Which is better for back pain?
Pilates may be a better choice than HIIT for people with back pain. Pilates focuses on building core strength and improving posture, which can help reduce back pain. Additionally, Pilates exercises are low-impact and can be modified to accommodate people with back pain.
Combining HIIT and Pilates
Combining HIIT and Pilates can be a great way to get the benefits of both workouts. Here are some tips for combining HIIT and Pilates:
- On the same day: You can do HIIT and Pilates on the same day, but it’s important to give your body enough time to recover between workouts.
- Which one first: You can do either HIIT or Pilates first, depending on your personal preferences. If you want to focus on strength and flexibility, you may want to do Pilates first. If you want to focus on cardiovascular fitness, you may want to do HIIT first.
- Morning or evening: You can do HIIT and Pilates in the morning or evening, depending on your schedule and personal preferences.
Conclusion
Pilates and HIIT are both effective workouts that offer unique benefits. While Pilates focuses on building strength, flexibility, and balance, HIIT focuses on burning calories and improving cardiovascular fitness. Which one is better for you depends on your fitness goals, personal preferences, and health status. Regardless of which workout you choose, remember to listen to your body and work at a pace that is comfortable for you.