Three Ways to Elevate Your Pilates Workout, According to a Celebrity Instructor

Looking to take your Pilates game to the next level? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting into the flow, sometimes a little boost is all you need to make your workout feel fresh and challenging.

You might have all the gear – a Liforme Yoga Mat (£77, originally £90), Pilates socks and your Sweaty Betty Sun Salutation Leggings (£27, originally £60) – but elevating your Pilates routine has less to do with looks and more about how you can maximise your moves to get the most out of your workout.

We tapped Marsha Lindsay, celebrity Pilates instructor and founder of Nobu Pilates (which is an incredible place to start your Pilates journey, trust me, I’ve tried it) for the inside scoop on how to turn up the heat while keeping things exciting on the mat. Here are three game-changing tips that’ll help you feel stronger, more balanced and seriously inspired next time you hit the studio (or your living room floor).

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Marsha Lindsay is a celebrity Pilates instuctor and the founder and creative director of Nobu Pilates.

What Are the Benefits of Pilates?

First up, let’s quickly recap the benefits of upping the ante in your Pilates routine. This exercise is going to tap into your physical strength, flexibility and alignment, while also promoting mental well-being, mindfulness and stress reduction. And those benefits are only scratching the surface.

“Pilates offers numerous benefits for both body and mind. Physically, it strengthens the core, improves flexibility, enhances muscle tone, and promotes better posture. The controlled, alignment-focused movements in Pilates not only increase muscle strength and joint mobility but also boost body awareness, leading to improved balance, coordination, and functional movement,” Lindsay tells PS UK.

“On a cognitive level, Pilates encourages mindfulness and relaxation through focused breathing and concentration,” she continues. “This mind-body connection helps reduce stress, enhances mental clarity, and sharpens focus. Many find that Pilates leaves them feeling more centred, energised, and balanced.”

What Are the Three Ways to Elevate Your Pilates Routine?

Lindsay has A-List stars and some of Britain’s favourite icons (Girls Aloud’s Nicola Roberts and Love Island presenter Maya Jama to name a few) flocking to her classes and it’s not surprising why, as you’ll find below, there are three essential elements to getting the most from your Pilates routine and you should take note.

Consistency is Key

Lindsay tells us that practising regularly helps build strength, flexibility, and body awareness over time. “Patience allows you to appreciate gradual progress, which is crucial in Pilates,” she adds. “By staying committed, you’ll notice significant improvements in your posture, muscle tone, and overall well-being.”

Proper Breathing

Inhale and exhale, your instructor isn’t just telling you to breathe for fun. The cornerstone of any good Pilates exercise is proper breathing and makes for a more effective practice.

“Coordinating your breath with movement – typically inhaling during preparation and exhaling during exertion – engages your core and enhances each exercise’s impact,” Lindsay tells us. “Focusing on mindful breathing throughout your workout can help you move more fluidly and reduce tension, optimising the benefits of your practice.”

Controlled, Purposeful Movements

You might feel tempted to speed through your session, but making the most of your Pilates movements can help reap more intense benefits. “Pilates emphasises controlled, purposeful movements rather than speed. Maintaining proper alignment and engaging your core throughout each exercise improves stability and prevents injury,” Lindsay explains.

“Avoid rushing or using momentum, as controlled movements are essential to reaping Pilates’ full benefits. Listening to your body and working with a skilled instructor can help you refine your technique for a safe and rewarding Pilates experience.”

Lauren Gordon is the editorial coordinator at PS UK, where she creates lifestyle and identity content. Lauren has a degree in journalism from University of the Arts London and previously worked as a showbiz and TV reporter at The Mirror US. Lauren specialises in pop culture, hair and beauty, focusing on trends, sharing in-depth tutorials, and highlighting hidden gems in the beauty industry.