Pilates vs. Strength Training

Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D., assistant professor of exercise science, is one of several experts featured in the Health story “Pilates vs. Strength Training: Which Is Better For Muscle Growth and Longevity?”

Most resistance training programs emphasize building strength during the concentric, or “shortening,” phase of a movement—such as lifting a weight during a curl. Pilates, by contrast, typically emphasizes both the concentric and eccentric, or lengthening, phases, Rothstein says. As a result, strength training is the most effective way to build muscle, improve bone health, and support long-term mobility, whereas Pilates improves core strength, balance, and flexibility, but is less efficient for building muscle alone. Rothstein suggests 30 to 60 minutes of strength training two to three days per week, and an additional two to three days of Pilates.

The article was also picked up by Wealth Creation Investing.