Pilates is one of those workouts that leaves your body feeling better [1] than when you started. Don't misread that; Pilates definitely isn't easy. But it is low-impact and easy on your joints, so your body doesn't feel the pain and strain of jumping and running workouts. At the same time, the challenging poses and transitions will tone your muscles and improve your flexibility.
There's no substitute for working out in-person with a Pilates instructor who can correct your form and help you maximise each exercise. But if you're short on cash for expensive classes or just want to work out in the comfort of your own living room [2] (I can relate), let me direct your attention to the following seven YouTube Pilates workouts. Created by certified instructors, each of these videos lasts 30 minutes or less, which is just enough time to stretch out your tight areas and get a burn going in all of your muscles. Pull on your stretchiest leggings, grab a mat, and hit play on whichever quick, effective Pilates workout you're in the mood for today.
Pilates 15-Minute Full Body Burn by Boho Beautiful
This Boho Beautiful video mixes the perfect amount of stretching and bodyweight exercises. It's a workout that gets you feeling long and limber while lighting up every muscle group.
25-Minute Pilates Workout by Class FitSugar
This intense workout will have your thighs shaking within minutes, and the slower pace of each move keeps your muscles under major tension.
Beautiful Body Pilates Workout by Blogilates
This quick total-body workout from Blogilates founder Cassey Ho mixes amazing stretches with burn-worthy, bodyweight strengthening moves.
Best Pilates Core & Total Body Workout by Yoga Dose
For this 25-minute total-body workout, engage your core and focus on matching your breath with your movement. You'll maximise every stretch and get your muscles glowing.
30-Minute Cardio Pilates For a Flat Belly
If you're looking for a little sweat with your Pilates, get ready for the fast pace and challenging resistance moves in this Class FitSugar. The class is core-focussed, but you'll feel the burn through your upper body, legs, and glutes thanks to the tough compound exercises. For more of a challenge, you can even add in a pair of light dumbbells.
Total Body Pilates Workout by Blogilates
Every move in this Blogilates workout is set to music, which will have you pushing through even the most challenging stretches and exercises (looking at you, eagle crunches).
Full Body Mat Pilates Workout by That Pilates Passion
Slow repetitions and a focus on perfect form make this 26-minute Pilates mat workout so challenging, your muscles will be shaking by the end!