sannPilates will evolve in 2026 with hybrid training, AI-driven feedback, wellness integration, and inclusive programs. Studios will focus on digitalization, small group classes, and sustainable equipment. Expect more personalization and technology in your Pilates experience.
The Pilates world never stands still. What began as a rehabilitation method developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century has grown into a global movement that is constantly innovating. And 2026 promises to be an exciting year for anyone who practices Pilates professionally. Whether you run a studio, work in a gym, or use Pilates as a physiotherapist, the trends we're seeing today will have a direct impact on how you work and what your clients expect.
Let's dive into what's really going on in the Pilates industry and how you can capitalize on it.
The Big Shifts in the Pilates Industry
In recent years, we've seen a huge increase in the popularity of Reformer Pilates. What was once primarily for dancers and rehabilitation patients is now mainstream. You see it everywhere on social media, influencers share their workouts, and more and more people want to know exactly what that mysterious machine does.
This popularity has led to interesting developments. Studios need to differentiate themselves more than ever. Simply offering "Pilates classes" is no longer enough. Your clients are looking for an experience, a community, and results they can see and feel. They want to know why they're choosing your studio over the other one around the corner.
At the same time, we're seeing technology play an increasingly important role. Not as a replacement for the human instructor, but as a complement. Think of apps that analyze your movements, wearables that monitor your posture, and online platforms that complement your in-person classes. The trick is to embrace these tools without losing the personal touch that makes Pilates so valuable.
Hybrid models: the best of both worlds
One of the most striking trends is the continued popularity of hybrid studios. During the pandemic, we were forced to go online, but guess what? Many clients greatly appreciate the flexibility. They don't want to choose between online and offline; they want both.
In 2026, you'll see more and more studios offering a smart mix. Perhaps you'll physically visit the studio twice a week for your Reformer session, then do one or two mat Pilates sessions at home via the studio app. Or you might take an online workshop on a specific topic and immediately apply it to your next in-person class.
This hybrid model does require a thoughtful approach. You can't just stick a camera in the corner of your studio and expect it to work. The best hybrid experiences are specifically designed for each medium. Online classes are shorter, more dynamic, and focus on exercises you can safely do at home. In-person classes make optimal use of the equipment and hands-on guidance only possible in a studio.
Best choice for hybrid studios
For studios that also want to offer their clients home workouts, the Elina Pilates Domo Reformer is an excellent recommendation. This telescopic reformer is compact enough for home use, yet offers the quality you expect from professional equipment. Perfect for recommending to clients who want to extend their studio experience to the comfort of their own home.
Personalization through technology and data
We live in an age where everything can be personalized, from your Netflix recommendations to your workout routine. And Pilates is no exception. In fact, personalization aligns perfectly with the core of Pilates: controlled, conscious movements tailored to your body.
By 2026, you'll see more and more studios using data to personalize workouts. This starts with the intake. Where a brief conversation used to be sufficient, studios now take the time to truly understand a person's goals, any injuries or limitations, and how their body moves.
This information is then used to create customized programs. AI plays a supporting role in this. There are now systems that can analyze your movement patterns and suggest improvements. Some Reformers are even equipped with sensors that provide feedback on your posture and the force you use.
But remember: technology is a tool, not an end in itself. The best studios in 2026 will be those that use technology to enhance the human expertise of their instructors, not replace it. Your attention to detail, your experience, your ability to motivate someone at just the right moment—these remain irreplaceable.
Wellness integration: more than just exercise
Pilates has always been more than just a workout. Joseph Pilates himself spoke of the connection between body and mind, and we're seeing that holistic approach emerge more strongly than ever.
By 2026, more and more studios will be integrating Pilates with other wellness disciplines. Think breathwork sessions before or after Pilates classes, meditation sessions, nutritional advice, or even collaborations with mental coaches. The idea is to help clients with their overall well-being, not just their core strength.
This trend aligns perfectly with what we're seeing in the market. People are no longer looking for individual solutions, but for a comprehensive approach to their health. A studio that can offer this is truly unique. It does, however, require collaboration. You don't have to do everything yourself, but you can partner with other professionals. A nutritionist who leads a monthly workshop in your studio, or a mindfulness trainer who facilitates a breathwork session.
There's also a growing focus on recovery and regeneration. Pilates is fantastic for building strength and flexibility, but your muscles also need rest. Studios are therefore increasingly offering gentle, restorative sessions. Think gentle Pilates, stretching on the barrel, or sessions focused on fascia release.
The rise of small group lessons
Large group classes are out, small groups are in. We saw this trend starting, but by 2026, it'll have truly become mainstream. Clients want personal attention. They want to be seen by their instructor, they want feedback on their technique, and they don't want to get lost in a group of twenty people.
Small group classes, often with a maximum of 6 to 8 participants, offer that intimacy. It's more personal than a large group class, but more affordable than one-on-one training. It's also attractive for studios: you can charge higher rates for exclusivity while still serving multiple clients simultaneously.
This trend certainly has an impact on your studio's design. You don't necessarily need a huge space, but you do need plenty of quality equipment. And here's something interesting: the Elite Reformer from Elina Pilates is stackable, which is perfect for studios that offer small-scale classes but also want to use their space efficiently. After class, you simply stack the Reformers, and you have plenty of room for other activities.
Inclusivity and accessibility
One of the most exciting developments in 2026 is the focus on inclusivity. Pilates is for everyone, and more and more studios are demonstrating this. We're seeing programs for people with different body types, for seniors, for pregnant women, and for those with specific conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.
This inclusive approach requires flexible equipment and well-trained instructors. Equipment should be adjustable for different heights and body types. The Master Instructor Physio Reformer , for example, is available in a raised version, which greatly facilitates the work of physiotherapists and instructors who work with a diverse clientele. It makes it easier for people with limited mobility to get started, and it's also much kinder to your own back when you're guiding people all day long.
Inclusivity also means adapting your class offerings. Not everyone can or wants to take an intensive athletic Pilates class. Some people benefit from gentle, therapeutic sessions. Others prefer to be challenged with complex exercises. A diverse class schedule attracts a diverse audience, and that strengthens your studio.
Sustainability in the Pilates industry
Sustainability isn't a trend anymore; it's an expectation. Clients want to know that the studios where they train are committed to the environment. And fortunately, there are increasingly more ways to make your studio more sustainable.
Start with the basics: your equipment. Brands like Balanced Body and Elina Pilates use FSC-certified wood and sustainable production processes. Balanced Body even has a production facility with 1,000 solar panels and natural lighting. Investing in high-quality equipment that will last decades is a sustainable choice in itself. You're not replacing your reformers every few years; you're investing in equipment that will last you ten, twenty, or even thirty years.
But sustainability goes beyond equipment. Consider your energy consumption. Can you switch to LED lighting? Green energy? What about your studio materials like mats, towels, and cleaning supplies? Are they environmentally friendly? Small adjustments can make a big difference, and your clients will appreciate them.
You also see more and more studios giving their old equipment a second life. Instead of throwing away old Reformers, they're refurbished and resold. Or you can trade in your old equipment with the supplier when you buy new ones. This circular approach aligns perfectly with the values of many Pilates practitioners.
Specialization within Pilates
Where once there were mainly "general" Pilates studios, you now see increasing specialization. Studios that focus on specific target groups or methodologies. Think of studios that focus entirely on pre- and postnatal Pilates, or studios that cater to athletes and athletic training.
Some studios offer only classical Pilates, faithful to Joseph Pilates' original method. Others embrace modern interpretations and blend Pilates with other disciplines like yoga, barre, or functional training. Still others focus specifically on rehabilitation and work closely with physiotherapists and physicians.
This specialization helps you find your niche and attract your ideal client. Instead of trying to be "all things to all people," you'll become the best in your specific field. This also makes your marketing much easier. You'll know exactly who you want to reach and what their pain points are.
For rehabilitation-oriented work
If you specialize in rehabilitation and therapeutic work, the Cadillac Elite Reformer from Elina Pilates is an absolute must-have. This machine combines a full-size Cadillac with a Reformer, offering an incredible range of exercise possibilities for therapeutic purposes. The variety of exercises and the ability to gradually increase intensity make it perfect for rehabilitation programs.
The role of community building
Studios in 2026 will be more than just a place to train; they'll be communities. People won't just come for the workout, but also to connect with like-minded people. This social aspect of Pilates will become increasingly important.
Smart studios are capitalizing on this by organizing events: workshops, challenges, social gatherings. Some studios even have their own app where members can communicate with each other, share their progress, and encourage each other. This creates a sense of connection that connects people to your studio.
Social media also plays a major role here. Studios that showcase their community online by sharing photos of classes, sharing success stories, and spotlighting their instructors build a strong brand identity. But be careful: authenticity is key. People will see right through it if it feels staged. The best social media content is genuine, human, and showcases what makes your studio unique.
What professionals say about Pilates trends
"Small-scale classes are the future. Our clients really appreciate the personal attention, and we see better results because we can really focus on technique," says an Amsterdam studio owner who switched to smaller groups in 2024.
A physiotherapist from Rotterdam who uses Pilates in her practice: "The combination of Pilates with other wellness disciplines works fantastically. We now also offer breathwork, and clients notice that their stress levels decrease while their physical condition improves."
"Technology helps us improve at what we do," says a senior Pilates instructor. "The movement analysis tools give me insights that I sometimes miss with the naked eye. But it's still a tool; my expertise and personal guidance are still the most important."
Practical tips for studios and gyms
If you run a Pilates studio or gym, how do you capitalize on these trends without blowing your budget on every new product that comes along? Here are a few practical suggestions:
Start with what your customers really want. Conduct a survey, talk to people after the class, and listen to their feedback. Invest in trends that meet their needs, not in something you happen to find interesting.
Choose quality over quantity. One high-quality Reformer will last longer and provide a better experience than three cheap models. The Balanced Body Studio Reformer comes with a lifetime warranty on the frame. And for good reason; it's an investment that will last for decades.
Focus on your team. The best equipment in the world is useless without great instructors. Invest in training, encourage your team to specialize, and create an environment where they can thrive. Good instructors are scarce, so make sure you retain them at your studio.
Don't be afraid to experiment, but do it smartly. Test new concepts on a small scale first. A pilot with hybrid classes, for example, before building a fully online platform. Or start with one specialized class per week before revamping your entire schedule.
And don't forget the basics. A clean studio, a friendly welcome, and well-maintained equipment—these are the foundations on which everything rests. All the trends in the world can't compensate for a poor foundation.
The future is now
Pilates in 2026 is exciting, diverse, and full of possibilities. Whether you run a small boutique studio or a large gym, there are opportunities to grow and improve your offerings. The key is to keep learning, listen to your clients, and stay true to what makes Pilates so powerful: the focus on quality, control, and the mind-body connection.
The trends we're seeing aren't one-off hypes, but reflect a deeper shift in how we view health and exercise. People want more than just a workout; they want a holistic approach to their well-being. They want personalization, community, and a sense that their time and money are well spent.
As a professional in the Pilates industry, you have the unique opportunity to help people achieve this. By capitalizing on these trends, investing in quality equipment and training, and always putting people first, you'll not only build a successful studio but also make a real impact on the lives of your clients.
The 5 most frequently asked questions about Pilates trends in 2026
Is online Pilates as effective as in-person classes? Online Pilates can be very effective for mat work and awareness, but lacks the hands-on correction and equipment. A hybrid model works best: in-person classes for technique and equipment work, supplemented with online sessions for flexibility and routine.
Which equipment is most future-proof for my studio? Invest in versatile, durable reformers with a good warranty. Models like the Elite Reformer (stackable) or Master Instructor (available in a raised version) offer flexibility. Choose brands with proven quality and long warranties.
How can I make my Pilates studio more sustainable? Choose equipment made with FSC-certified wood, switch to green energy and LED lighting, and use eco-friendly materials and cleaning products. Quality equipment that lasts decades is also a sustainable choice in itself.
What's the ideal group size for Pilates classes in 2026? Small groups of 6 to 8 participants are ideal. This offers personalized attention and correction, while remaining more affordable than private lessons. Clients appreciate the intimacy, and instructors can better focus on technique.
Should I, as a studio, invest in technology and AI tools? Technology can be valuable as a complement, not a replacement. Motion analysis tools and apps can provide insights, but human expertise remains essential. Invest in good equipment and well-trained instructors first; technology comes afterward.
