The Science Behind Pilates and Cognitive Function
When we think of Pilates we often think we are doing it to build strength, improve posture, and increase overall mobility. And while all of these are true, Pilates also appears to have another powerful benefit: its impact on brain health.
Research shows that Pilates supports executive function otherwise known as the set of mental skills that help us plan, focus, remember and adapt. Several studies have found that consistent practice can lead to measurable improvements in executive function, verbal fluency and working memory.
In other words, Pilates isn’t just a workout for the body, it's also powerful training for the mind.
What is Executive Function?
Executive function is the brain’s “control center”. It is what helps us stay organized, resist distractions and adapt to all of life's curveballs. It includes three key skills:
Inhibitory control: the ability to pause, reflect, and resist distractions instead of acting impulsively and having an automatic reaction to situations that may occur
Working memory: the ability to hold and manipulate information in our brains for example remembering directions for long enough that we can follow them
Cognitive flexibility: the ability to switch between different tasks or perspectives like moving from cooking dinner to talking to a friend
All of these skills are essential for being an independent, productive and emotionally regulated individual. Just like a muscle, executive functioning can be strengthened with the right kind of practice.
The Science of Coordinated Movement:
Physical activity influences the brain because it engages more than just muscles, it also activates complex cognitive processes. When physical activity requires coordination, focus and adaption rather than just repetition it challenges the brain to think, plan, and respond in real time.
Neuroplasticity: Repeated practice of complex movement stimulate changes in the brain particularly in the frontal lobes which are responsible for executive functioning
Sequencing and memory: Remembering a series of steps or linking movements together strengthens working memory.
Inhibition and control: Non-automatic movement forces us to override habitual patterns, engaging inhibitory control.
Dual tasking: Activities that require us to move while paying attention to posture, breath, or timing activate both motor and cognitive networks simultaneously.
How Can Pilates Support Executive Function:
Pilates enhances executive function because it’s not just a physical workout it’s a mental one too. Each session combines multiple layers of focus, coordination, and control, engaging the brain’s executive networks and strengthening the pathways that support attention, memory, and adaptability.
Inhibitory control and working memory: Pilates requires participants to resist habitual movement patterns, follow verbal cues, and recall specific sequences of exercises all while maintaining correct alignment and proper breath control. This combination demands inhibitory control (the pause before moving automatically) and working memory (holding and applying multiple instructions at once). Over time this helps to sharpen concentration and sustain attention both on and off the mat.
Cognitive flexibility: The ability to adapt and switch between tasks smoothly relies on your cognitive flexibility. As you transition from standing to seated to supine positions, each with unique breathing rhythms and movement directions, the brain must continuously adjust to new physical and spatial challenges. This constant adaptation strengthens mental agility, improves problem-solving, and builds the capacity to manage change, both in movement and in daily life.
Neuroprotection: Coordinated movements along with conscious breathing enhances blood flow and oxygenation to the brain. These effects promote neuroplasticity offering a protective buffer against age related cognitive decline. Over time, consistent Pilates practice not only preserves mobility and balance but also helps maintain mental clarity and resilience.
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