What is the hardest type of Pilates?

Ever tried a Pilates move that felt impossible at first?

I’ve been asked countless times what the toughest Pilates workouts are, especially from people who are ready to take things up a notch. Pilates isn’t just gentle stretching or basic core exercises. Some moves can seriously test your strength and balance.

How Do You Even Define "Hard" Pilates?

When I think of challenging Pilates, it’s always about moves that test core strength, balance, and flexibility all at once. These exercises don't just push muscles—you feel your whole body working together. After years of practice and instructing, here are a few that stand out.

The Snake and Twist

If you’ve ever struggled with basic planks, then the snake and twist will push your limits. Imagine balancing your whole body weight with precision, then twisting your torso while maintaining perfect form. This move challenges your obliques, arms, and your entire core. It's intense—trust me!

For an idea of how it's done, check out this detailed video.

The Teaser

The teaser looks straightforward—until you try it. Lying flat, you lift your upper body and legs simultaneously into a V shape. Holding this position tests your core strength and flexibility, especially when done slowly. Whenever clients want to level up, this is usually my first suggestion.

If you're curious about reformer variations, I often recommend practicing teaser on our onyx reformer, perfect for challenging moves at home.

The Control Balance

This advanced Pilates move takes the classic rollover and adds an extra layer of complexity. Think about balancing your body weight on your shoulders and neck while alternating extending legs overhead. It's fantastic for improving spinal flexibility and balance but requires a lot of control to avoid injury.

Here’s another useful guide that covers the control balance in-depth.

Is Reformer Pilates Harder?

Clients often ask whether reformer Pilates is harder than mat-based exercises. Honestly, it depends. Using a reformer can either support or challenge your body more than traditional mat Pilates. For instance, moves like the long stretch series on the reformer really test stability and upper body strength.

If you're looking to add some challenge to your routine, I recommend incorporating equipment like our reformer jumpboard box. It's ideal for dynamic movements that will seriously ramp up intensity.

You might also benefit from reading our guide on how to maximise your pilates reformer for full-body conditioning.

The Hardest Pilates Moves According to the Community

I’m constantly talking with clients about which Pilates exercises they find toughest. Moves that repeatedly come up include the Jackknife, the Swan Dive, and the Boomerang. The Jackknife, in particular, demands strength, balance, and flexibility in equal measure, requiring you to lift your legs and hips straight up off the mat without losing form.

The Boomerang is another move that clients have shared feels particularly tricky—you're effectively combining the teaser and rollover into a flowing sequence. It’s physically demanding and also tests your coordination. It's moves like these that really push your Pilates skills further.

Are Advanced Pilates Moves for Everyone?

I’m all about encouraging my clients to push their limits—but safely. Some advanced moves require not just physical strength but also proper guidance. This is why working your way up gradually and perfecting basics first is key.

If you're just starting, you might enjoy trying these reformer pilates exercises to strengthen your core.

Taking Your Pilates Practice Further

Pilates is about personal progression. So even if these moves seem intimidating now, you’ll likely surprise yourself with practice. Investing in quality equipment helps—I've found that using professional-level reformers and accessories at home makes advanced moves more accessible.

Feel free to reach out through our contact page if you have questions about progressing in your Pilates journey or choosing equipment suited to your level.

Pilates is challenging—but that’s exactly what makes it rewarding.