Pilates for Core Strength: 7 Exercises You Can Try

If you’ve ever been told to “engage your core” and immediately thought, Umm, how?, you are so not alone.

The truth is: your core isn’t just about abs. It’s the powerhouse that helps you sit tall, stand strong, and pick up your groceries (or toddler or beach cooler) without wincing. And Pilates? It's one of the best ways to build real, functional core strength, especially if you live in Fort Myers and want a workout that doesn’t involve sprinting in 90-degree humidity.

Let’s walk through 7 simple Pilates exercises that’ll fire up your core and make you feel stronger from the inside out. You can try these at home, or better yet, come try them with us at Barre Roots, your local Fort Myers Pilates spot.

1. Tabletop Toe Taps

A classic mat move that works your lower abs and challenges stability without straining your neck.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back, legs in tabletop (knees above hips, shins parallel to floor)

• Lower one toe to tap the floor, then bring it back up

• Alternate sides for 10–12 reps

Pro tip: Keep your ribs glued down and move slowwww. Shaky legs = working core.

2. Pilates 100s (Modified)

This one’s spicy. Like, don’t let the name fool you spicy.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back, knees in tabletop or legs extended

• Lift your head, neck, and shoulders

• Pump your arms by your sides while breathing: 5 inhales, 5 exhales = 1 set • Aim for 10 sets (aka 100 pulses)

Beginner tip: Keep your feet down or head resting if needed!

3. Dead Bug

Yes, it’s called that. No, you won’t look cute doing it. But your core will thank you.

How to do it:

• Lie on your back, arms straight up, knees in tabletop

• Slowly lower opposite arm and leg (right arm, left leg)

• Bring them back up, then switch sides • Go for 8–10 reps per side

Bonus: This one’s amazing for improving coordination and back support.

4. Bird Dog

Perfect for working your core and posture, and showing off to your dog while you're at it.

How to do it:

• Start on hands and knees

• Extend one arm and opposite leg

• Hold for 3–5 seconds, then switch

• Repeat 8–10 times per side

Keep your hips steady and don’t rush it. You’re building strength and stability here.

5. Forearm Plank

A classic. A burner. A whole-body challenge that always delivers.

How to do it:

• Elbows under shoulders, forearms down

• Legs extended, toes tucked

• Hold and breathe (start with 20–30 seconds)

Feeling brave? Add alternating toe taps or reach one arm forward.

6. Side-Lying Leg Lifts

Yes, it targets outer thighs, but your obliques are sneaking in big time.

How to do it:

• Lie on one side, legs extended

• Lift top leg slowly, then lower

• Repeat 12–15 times, then switch sides

Want more? Add a pulse at the top or grab a light ankle weight.

7. Glute Bridge with March

This sneaky core move doubles as a glute toner. You're welcome.

How to do it:

• Lie on back, feet flat, knees bent

• Press hips up into a bridge

• Lift one foot an inch off the floor, then switch

• Repeat 10–12 times

Keep your hips level, that’s where the core challenge kicks in.

So… why Pilates for core strength?

Because it’s low impact but high reward. It’s joint-friendly. It’s functional (aka it helps you feel strong when you’re doing real-life stuff). And best of all? It’s accessible. You don’t need a reformer machine or fancy equipment, just a mat and a willingness to show up.

If you’re in Fort Myers or anywhere in Southwest Florida, we’d love to have you in class at Barre Roots. We mix Pilates, barre, and functional movement into classes that meet you exactly where you're at, whether you're bouncing back after an injury, trying to build a sustainable routine, or just tired of back pain after sitting too long at your desk.

Ready to try Pilates for core strength in Fort Myers?

Come visit us at Barre Roots, a welcoming, judgment-free space where you’ll get sweaty, feel supported, and probably laugh at least once during class.

P.S. Got a favorite core move that we didn’t list? Shoot us a DM @barreroots, we’re always down to nerd out over Pilates. Or complain together about the 100s. Either way.