One of the harms in reducing Pilates down to “a weight loss method” is losing the actual benefits of long term Pilates practice. The number one principle in Pilates is breathing, it’s also the number one benefit— connecting your breathing to your movement can be a vehicle for building body awareness and core strength. Pilates breathing connects into your second heart: Diaphragm. It’s part of your core system regardless if it’s not being highlighted.