Pilates: Is it just a workout or stretching?

From the outside, Pilates is often associated with stretching, calm movements and flexibility.

But according to Wangari, an instructor at Zuberi Pilates and Nutrition, the practice goes far beyond that — combining breathing, control, posture and deep muscle engagement through intentional movement.

Speaking to Citizen Digital during a Pilates session, Wangari explained that Pilates was originally meant to be called “Contrology” and first started out as a rehabilitative practice before evolving into part of wellness and fitness.

She emphasized the importance of breathing during Pilates, noting that the practice works deep muscles that many other forms of exercise may not target.

“Pilates is for everyone. Everyone should do Pilates — athletes, postnatal women, anyone with spine issues,arthritis. It is really a rehabilitative tool,” she said.

Wangari also distinguished Pilates from yoga, explaining that while yoga leans more toward spirituality and meditation, Pilates focuses more on controlled movement and conditioning.

Beyond fitness, she noted that Pilates can help reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality and positively impact overall wellness.

While Pilates strengthens and conditions the body, Wangari encouraged people to also incorporate cardiovascular activities into their fitness routines for a more balanced approach to health.