Pilates Calories Burned Calculator
Track the energy you expend during Mat, Reformer, or Power Pilates sessions.
Session Details
Burn Statistics
Enter details to see your results
How Many Calories Does Pilates Burn?
A standard 60-minute Pilates session burns approximately 250-400 calories for an average weight adult. Reformer and Power Pilates sessions can push the burn toward the higher end of this range.
Pilates is a low-impact exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It emphasizes controlled movements, core engagement, and breath work. While it may not burn as many calories as high-intensity cardio like spinning or Zumba, its benefits for posture, flexibility, and lean muscle development are unparalleled.
Our calculator uses the latest 2024 Metabolic Equivalent of Task (MET) indices. Pilates MET values range from 3.0 for gentle mat work to 7.0 for athletic, high-intensity variations. This is comparable to a moderate yoga session or a brisk walk. The secret to Pilates isn't just the immediate burn—it's the long-term increase in lean muscle mass, which elevates your basal metabolic rate.
Factors Influencing Pilates Calorie Burn
Equipment Type
Reformer machines add spring-loaded resistance, requiring more muscle effort than mat-only exercises.
Class Level
Advanced classes feature more complex, compound movements that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
Instructor Intensity
The pace and rest periods set by the instructor directly impact your heart rate and total burn.
Core Engagement
Actively engaging your core throughout the session significantly increases energy expenditure.
Pilates Burn Projections
Calories by Session Length (70 kg / 154 lbs)
| Duration | Beginner (3.0) | Intermediate (4.0) | Reformer (5.0) | Advanced (6.0) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 min | 55 | 74 | 92 | 110 |
| 30 min | 110 | 147 | 184 | 221 |
| 45 min | 165 | 221 | 276 | 331 |
| 60 min | 221 | 294 | 368 | 441 |
| 90 min | 331 | 441 | 551 | 662 |
Calories by Your Weight (30 min Intermediate)
Pilates vs. Similar Activities (30 min, 70 kg)
| 🧘Pilates (Reformer) | 184 cal |
| 🧘♀️Yoga (Hatha) | 147 cal |
| 🩰Barre Class | 220 cal |
| 🏊Swimming (Leisure) | 184 cal |
| 🚶Walking (Moderate) | 151 cal |
| 💃Zumba (Standard) | 239 cal |
Data source: 2024 Revised Compendium of Physical Activities.
Pilates FAQ
Standardized & Verified By
Manish KumarCertified Fitness Professional (NASM) • Mind-Body Specialist • Expert in low-impact conditioning with 10+ years experience.