Another Pilates trend has arrived: the Pilates Sculpt Barre Workout is garnering attention as the new wall Pilates, but if you’re wondering what the heck it is and how to do it, you’ve come to the right place.
One of the reasons (among many) we love about this low-impact workout is that it requires very little equipment, but investing in some well-chosen equipment (like a Pilates Sculpt Bar) can really take your at-home workout to the next level. The Pilates Sculpt Bar is definitely popular right now, with more people than ever trying new ways to shake up their Pilates routines.
Just like wall pilates became popular earlier this year, this summer could be the season for sculpt bars, with advocates raving about their ability to enhance stretches and add tension to movements.
Keep scrolling to find out what Pilates is and why it’s good for you. Also, don’t forget to check out our guides on the best Pilates exercises for beginners, how to do wall Pilates, and the many benefits of Pilates. Plus, see how one of our writers tried out Pilates core moves every day. Ready for some Pilates bar exercises? Want to invest in the best Pilates bar? We’ve got that edit for you, too.
Pilates Sculpt Bar Workouts Are Trending – Here’s Everything You Need to Know
What is a Pilates Sculpt Bar?
First off, you might be wondering what the Pilates Sculpt Bar is, but don’t worry, it’s not that complicated.
“The Pilates Sculpt Bar is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used for Pilates training in the studio or at home,” explains Human Health Pilates instructor Colette Freeman.
“It consists of a long bar with resistance bands attached to it. The resistance bands add extra tension to the exercise, helping to tone and strengthen muscles more effectively.”
Essentially, the loops on the ends of the bar act as reformer straps, making it an affordable (and portable) way to enjoy the benefits of reformer-style Pilates.
What is the Pilates Sculpt Bar Workout?
So, as you can imagine, a Pilates Sculpt Barre workout is very similar to a more traditional style Pilates class in terms of movements, especially in a Reformer class as the barre allows you to replicate many of the movements of a Reformer session.
Be warned: it’s not for the faint of heart. “The Pilates Sculpt Bar Workout is a total-body workout that combines Pilates principles with strength training,” says Freeman. “It focuses on improving core strength, flexibility, posture and overall muscle tone. The Sculpt Bar adds resistance to traditional Pilates exercises, intensifying your workout and delivering faster results.”
If you’ve ever used resistance bands to add intensity to your bodyweight strength training classes, the Sculpt Bar works on the same principle.
What are the benefits of trying the Pilates Sculpt Bar Workout?
If you’re wondering if a Pilates Sculpt Bar is worth investing in, read on for its amazing benefits and all will become clear. But if you’re still hesitating to spend your hard-earned money, think about it. So It’s much cheaper than taking an actual class.
But essentially, the benefits of a Sculpt Bar workout are those we associate with practicing Pilates more commonly — keep scrolling for a rundown of the benefits of the celeb endorsement.
“Adding a Sculpt Bar to your Pilates practice can help you further develop your form and muscles, helping you go deeper into your practice,” reveals Pilates instructor Alexandra Warburton. “It also adds variety so you don’t get bored or repeat the same workout. However, it’s not strictly a Pilates tool, so instructors aren’t trained on how to use it properly, unlike more traditional Pilates kit like the Magic Circle or ball. That said, if you enjoy using it, keep at it.”
5 Coach-Approved Pilates Sculpt Bar Exercises to Try Today
1. Sculpt Bar Squats
what? Stand with your feet hip-width apart and squat down with the Sculpt Bar on your shoulders.
why? “This move combines Pilates with the classic strength-training squat, targeting the quads, glutes and hamstrings,” Freeman says.
For how long? Do 3 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions per set.
2. Carving a row of bars
what? Sit on the floor with your legs extended and holding the bar at chest height. Pull the bar towards you as if you’re rowing, or you can stand in the loop with your feet hip-width apart.
why? This move strengthens your shoulders, arms and upper back, helping to improve your posture.
For how long? Repeat for 3 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.
3. Sculpted Bar Lunge
what? Hold the bar overhead and come back into a lunge position to return to starting position.
why? “Like a regular squat, this move works your legs, glutes and core,” Freeman says.
For how long? Do three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions on each leg.
4. Sculpt Bar Chest Press
what? Lying chest press exercise using a Pilates Sculpt Bar and resistance bands.
why? “This move builds upper body strength by targeting your chest and triceps,” says Warburton, “and also improves your pushing strength, making these everyday movements and activities easier.”
For how long? Warburton recommends doing two to three sets of 12 to 15 repetitions.
5. Sculpt Bar Leg Lift
what? Lie on your back with your legs extended. Wrap the band around your feet and hold the bar above your hips. Keeping your hips pressed into the floor, lift your legs up toward the ceiling. Lower them down so they don’t touch the floor.
why? “These are great for strengthening the lower abdomen. “It builds a strong, stable core,” says Warburton, “and also improves hip flexor strength, which is essential for lower body mobility and function.”
For how long? Repeat for 2-3 sets of 10-12 repetitions.
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Get this Pilates bar and get ready to get in shape at home. Importantly, this bar comes with anti-slip foam padding so you don’t have to worry about sweaty hands.
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Can I do the Pilates Sculpt Bar Workout at Home?
Like most versions of the popular exercise, it’s entirely possible to do a Pilates Sculpt Barre workout at home. That said, if you’re new to Pilates it’s best to do a few sessions with a qualified instructor to ensure your form and technique are correct. This will not only help prevent injury but also ensure you get the most bang for your buck in terms of benefits.
