As more people seek low-impact fitness, the popularity of Pilates continues to rise. For the second consecutive year, the practice has topped the charts as the most popular workout worldwide according to ClassPass’s 2024 fitness report.¹

The practice and equipment (including reformers pictured here) can be adjusted for ability, age and preference.

“Our growth year over year prior to COVID was consistently strong at 12-18%,” says Chanin Cook, director of marketing for Balanced Body®, considered the global leader in Pilates equipment and education. “Coming out of COVID, our annual growth has accelerated to 25-30% continuously.”

Why are people flocking to reformers? Beyond the physical benefits, mental health awareness may play a role.

Pilates focuses on building core strength, improving flexibility and enhancing posture. But it is also a thoughtful practice with emphasis placed on the mind-body connection. The practice encourages participants to connect their movements with their mental state through controlled breathing and awareness. This combined focus on physical exertion and mental clarity can help promote relaxation and relieve stress.²

The community aspect of studios also contributes to a sense of belonging. “The availability of affordable, regularly scheduled, conveniently located, group Pilates classes continues to feed growing market demand,” adds Cook. “The explosive post-quarantine growth worldwide is largely attributed to consumers’ renewed focus on overall wellbeing.”

Chris Dordell, owner of two local Club Pilates studios in Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage says the franchise has grown to over 1,100 worldwide. Dordell left his corporate job to open the studios in 2018 after experiencing the benefits first-hand. Following the pandemic, his husband joined the business and growing interest in Pilates led to expansion; they now offer 170 classes weekly between their two studios.

“We often hear from members that Pilates is more than movement—it’s a practice of presence,” says Dordell. “During class we work on calming the busy thoughts of the day, focusing on breath and connecting the mind and body. Students often walk out of class feeling both energized and calm at the same time.”

Pilates appeals to those seeking balance in more ways than one. With its combination of physical benefits and focus on mindfulness, Pilates is not merely a workout; it is a wellness routine for both body and mind.

Lauren Del Sarto can be reached at [email protected].

References: 1) https://classpass.com/blog/2024-classpass-look-back-report/; 2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29609943/