Here’s something that surprises a lot of people new to Pilates: a Pilates band and a resistance band are essentially the same thing.
The term “Pilates band” describes how the band is used, not a different type of product. What you’re looking for is a flat, loopless resistance band with no handles. That’s the style that works best for Pilates because you can hold both ends, adjust your grip, and use it in all sorts of positions throughout a session.
Are they actually the same?
Yes, broadly speaking. A Pilates band is one type of resistance band — specifically the flat, open-ended kind. What sets it apart from other resistance bands (looped bands, bands with handles, tube bands) is its simplicity and flexibility of use.
You can fold it, loop it around a foot, hold it shorter or longer depending on the exercise. That versatility is what makes it so useful in Pilates.
What to look for when buying
Go for a flat band with no handles or loops, latex-free if possible, in a medium resistance to start with. You want it to add challenge, not prevent you from completing the exercise.
Like weights in Pilates, the goal isn’t maximum resistance. It’s controlled movement with a bit more work involved.
What can you actually do with a Pilates band?
Quite a lot. I use bands in my sessions regularly — they’re brilliant for adding challenge to leg work. Inner thigh exercises, leg circles, side-lying lifts. My students often groan when I pull one out, which tells you everything you need to know.
They’re also great for travel. Roll one up and it fits in any bag. When I’m away, my band comes with me — you can replicate a lot of reformer-style resistance using just a band.
If you want to give one a go, here’s my 25-minute full-body band workout:
What about looped or handled bands?
I use those too, just for different things. A looped resistance band is great for glute and leg exercises where you want the band to stay in place without holding it. Handled bands work well for upper body work. They’re not wrong choices — just different tools for different exercises.
My recommendations
For Pilates specifically, you want a simple flat band. A few worth looking at:
The Meglio Pilates Band is latex-free, comes in different resistance levels, and holds up well with regular use. Good value.
If you’d like something with handles, the Friendship Figure 8 Band works well for arm and shoulder exercises and stays secure underfoot.
For a more complete kit, the WSAKOUE Resistance Band Set comes with ankle straps and a carry bag, which is handy if you’re building a home Pilates setup.
The bottom line
Don’t overthink it. A flat, loopless, medium-resistance band is all you need to get started. It’s one of the most versatile and affordable bits of Pilates kit you can own.
