100 years after its creator first launched it to the world, Pilates is booming. Here’s why it’s as relevant for modern members as it was a century ago.
Every once in a while, a workout comes around with serious pulling power. From the aerobics boom of the 80s to the CrossFit and Hyrox trends of the current day. Workouts can capture a mood but some stay, attracting new audiences with each new generation. That’s the impact Pilates has recently had, drawing in celebrities and influencers alike, creating a social media whirlwind that has crossed over into the in real life experience, leading to packed classes and massive demand.
Why is Pilates so timely? The roots of creator Joseph Pilates’ original workout are anchored in addressing the bad habits of modern life. He set out to create a program to improve bad posture and introduce mindful breathing — aims as relevant today as they were then. Consumers are increasingly motivated to work out for intrinsic reasons, seeking movement that enhances their health and helps them live long and healthy lives.
Appetite for low-impact training is strong, with bookings up 176% from 2022*. With members’ appetite for strength training showing no signs of slowing down, Pilates is the perfect offset to the high-impact exertion of strength. Thanks to its focus on breathwork, alignment and control, it offers a gentler approach, while still providing a full-body workout.
There’s also an opportunity to harness the restorative power of Pilates to target those recovering from injury or managing pain and attract more men into the studio. A recent survey** from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics revealed men are more likely to favor low-impact training to manage pain than women (31.8% vs 27.5%). So, what can members expect from a Pilates workout? And how can you use it to attract new faces to the studio?
BREATHWORK
The focus on mindful movement and breath heightens awareness of how your body moves. This may appeal to members keen to experience the studio, but not yet ready for high-tempo choreography, allowing them to build their confidence.
CONTROL
Incorporating Pilates into their routines helps movers avoid injury and train more effectively in other workouts. Moving with control gives them time to correct alignment and strengthens the core and glutes.
INSTRUCTOR RECRUITMENT
The huge popularity of Pilates offers the opportunity to tap into a whole new talent base and attract new faces to your instructor team.
BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE
Pilates is easy to launch and can be delivered in any type of studio, without the need for expensive fit-outs and equipment. This allows members to tap into the boutique experience, while staying with your facility.
* https://classpass.com/blog/2023-classpass-look-back-report/
** https://athletechnews.com/cdc-yoga-report/
