Top five Pilates exercises for building muscle, according to a physiotherapist

Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Other exercises use body weight resistance – such as when you are on all fours or in the plank position.” If you’re just starting your strength training journey, simple mat Pilates moves can be a great way to start. Top 5 Pilates exercises for strengthening muscle Knee hovers Helen O'Leary demonstrating how to do a knee hover Knee hovers are a great exercise for strengthening the shoulders, arms, and abdominals. Repeat 5 each way Bridge Helen O'Leary demonstrating how to do a bridge Single leg bridge is a great exercise for building strength in the gluteus maximus - one of the most powerful muscles of the lower body. Repeat 10 on each side Side Lift Helen O'Leary demonstrating how to do a side lift Side lift is a great exercise for working the lateral abdominal and back muscles, and static shoulder strength.