How Many Calories Does Pilates Burn? (Mat vs. Reformer vs. Cadillac)

Pilates is a fantastic low-impact workout that strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and enhances mind-body connection. But one common question is: How many calories does Pilates actually burn?

The answer depends on several factors, including:

Your weight (heavier individuals burn more calories)
Workout intensity (beginner vs. advanced)
Type of Pilates (Mat, Reformer, or Cadillac)

In this guide, we’ll break down the estimated calorie burn for different Pilates styles so you can choose the best workout for your fitness goals.

Average Calorie Burn in Pilates (Per 60-Minute Session)

Pilates Style	Calories Burned (125 lb person)	Calories Burned (155 lb person)	Calories Burned (185 lb person)
Mat Pilates	180-250 kcal	220-300 kcal	260-350 kcal
Reformer Pilates	200-350 kcal	250-400 kcal	300-450 kcal
Cadillac/Tower	250-400 kcal	300-450 kcal	350-500 kcal

Note: These estimates are based on moderate to high-intensity sessions.

1. Mat Pilates: The Classic Workout

Mat Pilates uses bodyweight resistance and focuses on core strength, stability, and controlled movements.

Calorie Burn:

Beginner: ~180-220 kcal (low intensity)
Intermediate/Advanced: ~220-350 kcal (dynamic flows, added resistance)

Best For:

✓ Core strengthening

✓ Improving posture

✓ Low-impact exercise

2. Reformer Pilates: Resistance-Based Training

The Pilates Reformer uses springs and sliding movements to add resistance, increasing muscle engagement and calorie burn.

Calorie Burn:

Beginner: ~200-300 kcal
Advanced (Jumpboard/High Resistance): ~350-450 kcal

Best For:

✓ Toning muscles

✓ Enhancing flexibility with resistance

✓ Higher calorie burn than mat

3. Cadillac/Tower Pilates: Full-Body Challenge

The Cadillac (or Tower) is an advanced Pilates apparatus with springs, bars, and straps, allowing for a wider range of motion and deeper muscle activation.

Calorie Burn:

Moderate Session: ~250-400 kcal
High-Intensity (Advanced Exercises): ~400-500 kcal

Best For:

✓ Rehabilitation & deep stretching

✓ Advanced strength training

✓ Maximizing calorie burn

How to Increase Calorie Burn in Pilates

If your goal is weight loss or higher calorie expenditure, try these tips:

✓ Add props (resistance bands, weights, or Pilates rings)

✓ Increase speed & intensity (e.g., faster transitions in Reformer workouts)

✓ Try Pilates HIIT (combining cardio bursts with Pilates moves)

✓ Focus on compound movements (exercises that engage multiple muscles)

Conclusion: Which Pilates Burns the Most Calories?

While Mat Pilates is great for beginners, Reformer and Cadillac Pilates typically burn more calories due to added resistance. However, consistency and intensity matter most—whether you burn 200 or 500 kcal per session, Pilates improves strength, flexibility, and body composition over time.

Want to calculate your exact Pilates calorie burn? Try our Pilates Calorie Burn Calculator!