Pilates Calories Burned vs Yoga & Cardio: Which Workout Burns More Fat?
- Ha Na-bi
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
Table of Contents

Introduction
Trying to torch fat but canāt decide between Pilates, yoga, or cardio?
Letās break it down. Whether you're in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru or Selangor, understanding how each workout impacts your calorie burn can help you hit those 2026 fitness goals faster.
1. How Many Calories Does Pilates Burn?
On average:
Mat Pilates:Ā 200ā300 calories/hour (moderate pace)
Reformer Pilates:Ā 250ā450 calories/hour (higher resistance)
The actual burn depends on intensity, body weight, and session length ā but Reformer Pilates is clearly a step up.
2. Calories Burned: Pilates vs Yoga vs Cardio
Workout Type | Calories Burned (1 hour) |
Yoga (Hatha) | 180ā250 kcal |
Reformer Pilates | 250ā450 kcal |
HIIT/Cardio | 400ā700 kcal |
If fat loss is your main goal, cardio still wins for maximum burn. But for toning, strength, and posture? Pilates takes the lead.

3. Does Pilates Burn Fat Effectively?
Yes ā especially when combined with a calorie deficit and consistency.
Burns fat slower than cardio but adds lean muscle
Boosts metabolism over time
Improves body definition and core strength
Many women in Melaka, Negeri Sembilan & PerakĀ choose Pilates for low-impact fat burn without stressing the joints.
4. Reformer Pilates: More Intense, More Burn
The Reformer machineĀ adds spring resistance to challenge your muscles, balance, and control.
š„ Why it burns more:
Engages full body, not just core
Adds load with resistance settings
Includes dynamic movements (e.g. jump board, pulleys)
Keeps heart rate up longer than mat Pilates
Studios in Pulau Pinang, KL & JBĀ report higher client retention and results with Reformer-based classes.

5. Which Workout Should You Choose?
For fat burn:Ā Cardio or HIIT sessions
For low-impact toning:Ā Reformer Pilates
For flexibility & stress relief:Ā Yoga
Mixing all three gives the best long-term results. Start slow and find what keeps you motivated!
Conclusion
Reformer Pilates sits right between yoga and cardio ā offering a solid fat-burning, body-toning workout. It may not torch calories like HIIT, but itās way more sustainable (and fun!).
FAQs
1. Can I lose weight doing only Pilates?
Yes, but pair it with healthy eating for best results.
2. Is Reformer better than Mat Pilates?
Yes, it burns more calories and works more muscle groups.
3. How often should I do Pilates?
2ā4 sessions/week is ideal for fat burn and toning.
4. Can beginners do Reformer Pilates?
Absolutely ā start with beginner-friendly classes or private sessions.
5. Is Pilates good for postpartum fat loss?
Yes! It's gentle on joints and strengthens the core safely.
Looking to Buy a Reformer Pilates Machine in Malaysia?
š We supply studio-grade Reformer Pilates machinesĀ for home & commercial use ā perfect for full-body workouts at your own pace!
ā Smooth resistance & adjustable settings
ā Ships to KL, Selangor, Johor, Penang, Perak, Melaka & more
ā Ideal for weight loss, toning, and postnatal recovery
š² WhatsApp us now for machine options & promo price!!









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