Is Barre better than Pilates? Side by side comparison
Guess what's been getting popular lately in the fitness world? Pilates grabbed the title of the most booked class last year, and it's only been climbing the charts since. You've seen the vibe – that early morning matcha in hand, post-Pilates glow lighting up the day.
But you know how it goes… When something's everywhere, we start craving for a fresh twist. Welcome the new contender - Barre. The chic alternative that's shaking things up. It's for those who march to the beat of their own gym shoe, craving something a little different, a little bold, and totally Instagram-worthy. 💃
Now, why is everyone chatting about Barre? Because it’s a full package and it’s fun! You get to stretch, tone up, and find your balance, lose some calories — all while feeling a bit like a ballerina. It's not just a workout; it's a whole mood, blending elegance with strength. Well… and some sweat too 💦
“Did you know that Barre was actually created by a ballerina? Yep! In the 1950s, a German dancer named Lotte Berk came up with the idea after she injured her back. She blended ballet barre routines with rehab therapy to create a workout that was both effective and safe. Which in the end, made everyone fall in love with it.”
Is Barre better than Pilates?
Yes and no. It depends more on your preference. Pilates is all about that core strength, making you feel strong from the inside out. On the flip side, Barre throws in a bit of everything—legs, arms, you name it—with a sprinkle of dance/ballet vibes. It’s like throwing a party for your muscles.
So how do these two, Pilates & Barre, look when you compare them side by side. What are the differences? Lets dive in:
What does Barre do?
Therapeutic exercises. Unique combination of ballet techniques, which are excellent for improving posture, alignment, and muscle symmetry, with therapeutic exercises. This might set it apart the most from Pilates.
Might prevent osteoporosis. Barre Is an excellent workout option for strengthening bones. A benefit that's valuable as we age but might not be the first thing people think of when considering Barre.
Gets you moving with those tiny, intense movements that work every part of your body. It focuses more on high reps and low impact exercises and moves.
Strengthens the smaller, supporting muscle groups around the joints, which are crucial for stability and injury prevention
It’s a bit of ballet, a touch of Pilates, and a dash of yoga, making workouts varied and fun.
You'll probably use some cool equipment like weights and bands, which spice things up. And get to hold on to the bar like a ballerina 💃
Super for making you feel energised and powerful. People say that you feel a different energy after and your body keeps craving more of it.
What does Pilates do?
It’s the core’s best friend. The biggest difference compared to Barre is that it focuses on deeper layers of your abs. Sometimes, you will feel like you are giving birth during a class of how intense those abs work.
It’s better for lower back. Pilates excels at making your lower back stronger. Together with strong core, glutes and lower back, you will be less prone to injuries.
You can keep it simple on a mat or ramp up with gadgets like the reformer for extra sweat 😰
Undercover agent for injury prevention. Pilates focuses on controlled, precise movements that protect your body while strengthening it. This careful approach reduces the risk of injury and ensures that no muscle is overworked or neglected.
It’s a big house, welcoming everyone from beginners to those healing from a physical injury or looking to level up their fitness game.
So here is the verdict…
Choose Barre if…
… the idea of a workout that feels like a graceful dance appeals to you, Barre could be it. Plus, it’s more intense and you will sweat more, and, possibly, burn more calories.
It’s perfect for sculpting that dancer-like body while having a ton of fun. It may give you that toned, yet flexible physique. And the best part? It’s an instant community, a place to meet fellow barre girls.
Choose Pilates if…
… you want that rock-solid core and train those deeper levels of your abs (which we all need to do). Then Pilates is the right choice. Pilates is a more mindful approach and less intense compared to Barre.
Pilates places a significant emphasis on the connection between mental focus and physical movement. It encourages mindfulness and precision with each exercise. So, Pilates isn’t just a workout; it’s a long-term investment in a body that’s stronger, more balanced, and less prone to getting hurt. It pays off if you stay consistent. And you know how we love consistency at MokoBoko.
In the end, remember. It doesn’t matter which form of exercise you choose as long as you do it and stay consistent. That’s why we always preach in our studio — one time a week is not enough.
Whether you choose Barre or Pilates, both require consistency and dedication. And if it’s hard to do that, sometimes, all you need is a supporting environment. So join that local class or online community and do it! You might just find your fitness soulmate. 🌟💃
In the meantime, you can always explore our Pilates or Barre classes or try our 7 Day Pilates Challenge which is a great way to practice Pilates at home in just under 10 minutes a day.
