The Rise of the Pilates Girl Lifestyle: Why Pilates Is Taking Over
Compared to other forms of exercise, Pilates is a low-impact but highly effective workout, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. Unlike high-impact workouts like running or HIIT, which can put stress on the joints, Pilates focuses on controlled movements that strengthen the body without harsh impact. Whether you’re using just a mat or adding resistance with reformer machines, you can tailor Pilates to your body’s needs.
Beyond its physical benefits, Pilates is known for reducing stress, improving mobility, and supporting overall well-being. One of the biggest workout trends of last year was somatic exercise: movement that focuses on mind-body awareness. Since Pilates shares many similarities with somatic exercise and emphasises controlled, intentional movement, it naturally aligns with somatic principles, which could be a big reason for its growing popularity.
Another driving force behind Pilates’ popularity is its chic aesthetic, making it ideal for social media content. The rise of fitness influencers and wellness culture on platforms like Instagram and TikTok has amplified Pilates’ appeal, with many creators sharing their routines in stylish athleisure. The environment also plays a part — a beautiful Pilates studio design with calming décor or chic home setups make for an attractive backdrop that instantly ups the exercise’s appeal. As a result, Pilates has become more than a wellness trend; it’s an aesthetic trend, too.
What are the most popular types of Pilates?
While you might think Pilates is a one-size-fits-all exercise, there are actually many different types. Each style offers its own unique benefits.
- Mat Pilates: The most accessible form of Pilates, performed on a mat using bodyweight resistance. It focuses on core strength, balance, and control, often using small props like resistance bands or Pilates rings to add variety.
- Reformer Pilates: Performed on a Reformer machine, this style adds resistance through springs, straps, and a moving carriage to intensify exercises. It’s great for full-body strength, core control, and flexibility, offering a dynamic and challenging workout. Reformers can also be upgraded with a cadillac for even more flexibility and movement.
- Chair Pilates: A modified form of Pilates that uses a Pilates chair as a support for exercises. Also known as a Wunda Chair, this is a compact but powerful piece of Pilates equipment often used in advanced Pilates training. It consists of a sturdy box with a spring-loaded pedal, allowing for a wide range of strength, balance, and mobility exercises.
- Barre Pilates: A fusion of Pilates, ballet, and strength training, this style focuses on small, controlled movements, high reps, and isometric holds to sculpt and tone muscles. Often done with a ballet barre, it’s great for leg and glute endurance, posture, and flexibility.
- Contemporary Pilates: A modern take on Pilates, blending classic movements with elements from physiotherapy, yoga, and functional training. Often more adaptable and customised for rehabilitation, sports performance, or general fitness.
- Classical Pilates: Joseph Pilates’ original method follows a structured sequence of exercises designed to flow seamlessly, unlike modern forms of Pilates that can incorporate other movements like HIIT exercises. It emphasises precision, breath control, and full-body engagement.
- Stott Pilates: A scientific and rehabilitation-focused approach to Pilates, developed by Moira Stott. It modernises classical Pilates by emphasising spinal alignment, natural movement patterns, and core stability, making it a popular choice for injury prevention and recovery.
So which is the most popular type of Pilates here in the UK?
- Reformer
- Mat Pilates/Chair Pilates
- Barre Pilates/Hot Pilates
- Stott Pilates
- Classical Pilates
Where in the UK is Pilates most popular?
When it comes to Pilates, certain cities are leading the way in both traditional Pilates and the more equipment-focused reformer Pilates. So which UK cities are embracing this transformative workout the most? We’ve pulled Google search data for both “Pilates” and “reformer Pilates” to find out.
Top 10 UK cities for ‘Pilates’
- London
- Manchester
- Birmingham
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Liverpool
- Bristol
- Leeds/Sheffield
- Cardiff
- Newcastle
Top 10 UK cities for ‘reformer Pilates’
- London
- Manchester
- Glasgow
- Leeds
- Birmingham
- Bristol/Edinburgh
- Nottingham/Liverpool
- Brighton/Milton Keynes
- Cardiff/Aberdeen
- Derby/Belfast
The Pilates girl lifestyle
Want to achieve the Pilates girl lifestyle for yourself? It’s all about embracing a balance of fitness, wellness, and a mindful approach to life, while still remembering to have fun. Here’s how to get there:
Commit to Pilates
It goes without saying but the main component of becoming a ‘Pilates girl’ is making Pilates a regular part of your routine. Whether it’s mat Pilates, reformer sessions, or a combination, aim to do it a few times a week to build strength, flexibility, and a toned body.
You can start by following a video tutorial at home, but signing up for classes is a great way to introduce yourself to the exercises, get advice from a professional instructor, and connect with others who share your fitness goals. If you’re new to regular exercise, booking a block of classes not only provides structure but also offers a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, which can be a powerful motivator.
Prioritise health and wellness
A nutritious diet plays a huge role in feeling your best. Opt for clean, whole foods like fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats to fuel your body for workouts and everyday activities. Consider swapping some of your less-healthy snacks and drinks for healthier options. For instance, you can switch your daily iced latte for a herbal tea, iced matcha latte, or green juice — a great way to get the Pilates girl aesthetic, too.
Pilates isn’t just physical, either: it’s also about mindfulness. During your workouts and throughout the day, focus on your breathing and movements to connect your mind and body. Yoga or meditation can also complement your Pilates routine. The Pilates lifestyle values balance, so focus on stress management and cultivating positive relationships with yourself and others.
Remember, rest is just as important as exercise. Prioritise sleep and hydration, and don’t neglect your skincare to keep your body feeling rejuvenated.
Build a community
Whether online or in-person, a strong community keeps you motivated, inspired, and supported on your journey. You can find like-minded people by attending local classes and following Pilates influencers on social media. Why not share your journey by posting progress updates, your favourite workouts, or wellness tips?
Have fun
Most of all, make sure you have fun with Pilates. If your workout becomes a hobby, it doesn’t feel like a workout at all! Adding music to your Pilates routine can help keep you focused, and you can even match the tempo of your movements with the music for a rhythm-based session.
“Pilates does it all. It builds strength, improves flexibility, and boots mindfulness, all in exercises you can do at home. It doesn’t just sculpt and tone; it can help with posture, core stability, and overall body awareness, making it a go-to for anyone wanting results that last.
The controlled, flowing movements also translate beautifully online, which is largely why it’s skyrocketed in popularity recently. It’s not just about doing it to look good anymore — it’s about looking good while doing it.”– Will Broome, Director at GymEquipment.co.uk
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