Running builds endurance but it rarely builds balance. Pilates fills in the gaps, developing the core strength, hip stability, and mobility that help you run more effectively and avoid injury.
Running is a repetitive, forward-moving sport. Every stride works the same muscles in the same direction, which can lead to imbalances over time. Pilates introduces movement in multiple planes, challenging your body to work side to side and with rotation, not just forward and back.
This cross-training approach can help improve posture, balance, and mind-body control, all of which support better running form. Because Pilates is low-impact, it is also a smart way to stay active on recovery days without adding extra strain to joints that are already working hard on your runs.
A strong, stable core helps keep your pelvis moving functionally, which can support more efficient movement and reduce unnecessary stress on your lower back.
Pilates targets the hips and glutes, muscles that power your stride and help stabilize your body as you run.
Many Pilates movements lengthen and mobilize the hamstrings and hip flexors, areas that tend to get tight from repetitive running mechanics.
Pilates emphasizes controlled breathing, upright alignment, and axial extension, habits that can carry directly into a more efficient running posture.
Because Pilates builds strength and control around the knees and shins, it may help with overuse injuries such as runner’s knee and shin splints.
The Reformer is Club Pilates' signature piece of equipment. It provides resistance training while supporting your body and minimizing impact on your joints, making it a thoughtful complement to the high-impact nature of running.
Many lower body Reformer exercises are performed unilaterally, one leg at a time, which mirrors the single-leg loading pattern of a running stride and helps build balanced strength on both sides of the body. Club Pilates' Suspend format pairs Reformer Pilates with TRX® suspension training to test core stability, coordination, and strength, and it is designed as great cross-training for runners, golfers, tennis players, and cyclists.
If you are new to Pilates, these beginner-friendly moves are a great place to begin building a foundation:
One to two Pilates sessions a week on cross-training or rest days is a great place to start. During base-building phases, you may have more flexibility to add sessions, while peak mileage weeks might require scaling back to one focused class.
If you are new to the practice, Level 1 classes are a great starting point to learn proper form and build confidence with the equipment. Grip socks are required for all Club Pilates classes, so be sure to bring a pair or purchase them at the studio.
Try a free intro class at a Club Pilates studio near you and feel the difference for yourself.
Is Pilates good for runners?
Yes. Pilates can help build core strength, hip stability, and mobility, which may support better running form and help reduce common overuse issues that runners often experience.
How often should runners do Pilates?
Most runners benefit from one to two sessions per week, scheduled on cross-training or rest days. You can adjust frequency based on your training phase and overall mileage.
Do I need to be flexible or experienced to start Pilates?
Not at all. At Club Pilates we believe that Pilates is for EveryBody, including complete beginners. Level 1 classes are designed to introduce proper form at a comfortable pace, no prior experience required.
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