More than a century has passed since Joseph Pilates introduced his distinctive method for developing strength and endurance. Today, it ranks among the most popular fitness approaches worldwide. What makes Pilates so appealing to the modern fitness enthusiast?
What is Pilates?
The method emerged in the early 1920s when German trainer Joseph Pilates developed low-impact exercises to refine muscle balance and build optimal strength. He called his system ‘Contrology,’ emphasising mental control over muscles, especially the deep postural muscles that stabilise and support the spine.
Originally used for rehabilitation, Pilates gained popularity among dancers and gymnasts after he moved to New York. His 8th Avenue studio soon attracted socialites seeking better flexibility, strength, and endurance.
The late 1990s witnessed a dramatic resurgence in Pilates popularity, when celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston became studio regulars. This momentum has only accelerated since then, with the worldwide Pilates and yoga studio market hitting $158 billion USD in 2023 and is projected to expand at over 11% annually through 2032. In the UK, reformer Pilates searches have jumped 57% since late 2024, with London leading this surge.
The increased focus on health and wellness, particularly among younger demographics, is driving demand for fitness activities like Pilates. Today’s landscape offers unprecedented variety: Mat Pilates, Hot Pilates, HIIT Pilates, Reformer Pilates and Classical Pilates represent just some of the available styles. This diversity ensures there’s a variation suited to every fitness preference and goal.
Another positive trend is emerging within the Pilates community – more men are discovering Pilates classes as they realise how well it complements their existing training by enhancing strength, flexibility, posture, and body awareness. While women still make up the majority of Pilates participants, male enrolment is climbing – one fitness chain saw a 47% increase in male members attending mat-based Pilates classes since 2019 according to The Wall Street Journal.
This change signals a broader recognition that Pilates offers significant benefits for all, regardless of gender.
How can fitness businesses capitalise on this trend?
Diversify your offering – Create a variety of different options for your members, such as group classes, one-on-one sessions, specialised workshops or even online classes to attract a wider client base.
Develop Instructor expertise – Invest in your staff by upskilling them, with courses such as Reformer Pilates, to not only improve their teaching skills but to stay ahead of the competition.
Engage your audience – Identify your target demographic and tailor your offering to their preferences, create engaging content to showcase on social media platforms and ensure your booking processes are streamlined and user-friendly.
This booming Pilates market offers significant revenue potential for those who embrace the trend, driven by the health-conscious consumer and the increasing demand for preventative wellness solutions.
To learn more about our Pilates courses and how this training can benefit your team, check out the link here.