Jodie Comer maintains her core strength through a consistent Pilates practice guided by elite trainer David Higgins, according to interviews with the New York Times and WSJ. By combining reformer-based Pilates for functional stability with high-repetition ab circuits, Comer and other celebrity clients like Margot Robbie build core endurance that prioritizes joint health and movement mechanics over aesthetic goals.
How to replicate the celebrity-endorsed ab routine
You don’t need a private FaceTime session with David Higgins to access his training methodology. When training clients, Higgins prescribes a 100-rep ab challenge designed to target the deepest layers of the core. According to Higgins, the circuit consists of 20 crunches, 20 toe taps with legs together, 20 left-side toe taps, 20 right-side toe taps, and a final 20 toe taps with legs together.
Why Pilates is replacing traditional weight training for core stability
Comer’s transition to Pilates reflects a broader shift in celebrity fitness toward movement quality. Speaking to Vogue, Comer noted that despite years of traditional weight training with personal trainers, she did not fully understand how her body should move until she began Pilates. Higgins emphasizes that he prefers durations over repetitions when using a reformer machine. By working muscles unilaterally, the reformer ensures that mechanics remain balanced, which helps prevent joint injury and improves physical longevity.
The 2-minute reformer circuit
Higgins recommends focusing on precision rather than speed to maximize the benefits of reformer Pilates. Perform each of the following movements for two minutes:
- Wheelbarrow plank hold
- Plank to pikes
- Standard plank hold
- Glute kickbacks (both sides)
- Leg circles
The reality of visible abs vs. functional core strength
While high-intensity circuits can strengthen the midsection, no single workout guarantees visible abdominal definition. According to the provided fitness insights, body composition, nutrition, and individual genetics remain the primary factors in muscle visibility. The focus of the Comer-Higgins approach is functional strength—the ability of the core to support the spine and coordinate movement—rather than superficial aesthetic outcomes.
The “core” is not just the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscle). It includes the transverse abdominis, obliques, and the muscles of the lower back. Pilates is uniquely effective at targeting the transverse abdominis, which acts as a natural corset for the spine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get visible abs just by doing these exercises?
No. Visible abs are primarily a result of overall body composition, which is influenced by nutrition, activity levels, and genetics. These exercises will strengthen the muscles, but they will not dictate their visibility.
How often should I perform the 100-rep ab challenge?
Consistency is more important than frequency. Starting with two to three sessions per week allows for adequate muscle recovery while ensuring the core remains engaged.
Why does David Higgins prefer reformer Pilates over floor Pilates?
Higgins notes that the reformer machine provides mechanical feedback that helps protect joints and ensures muscles are worked unilaterally, which is harder to achieve with floor-based exercises alone.
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