Recently, Pilates has become one of the fastest‑growing workout trends among young adults. ClassPass, a boutique fitness subscription network, reported that specifically mat Pilates reservations jumped 114 percent in 2025. This statistic reflects a recent shift toward low‑impact, strength‑focused exercise from traditional workouts. What was once considered a niche routine has turned into a mainstream option for people who want to build strength without the intensity or pressure of traditional gym workouts.
It’s safe to say that the appeal of Pilates comes from its balance of accessibility as well as its effectiveness. The Pilates method focuses on controlled movements, core engagement and alignment, making it approachable for beginners, while still challenging for experienced goers. The structure of Pilates allows students to work out and build strength without the heavy equipment or high‑impact movements like running.
Rowan Green (9) said she recommends Pilates to students looking for a new way to stay active.
“I would definitely recommend Pilates to anyone who wants to try a new form of exercise, improve strength and have a healthier lifestyle,” Green said.
The rise of Pilates at Spartanburg High School also mirrors a shift in how students think about fitness overall. Instead of prioritizing fast, high‑intensity workouts, many are choosing routines that feel sustainable and supportive of long‑term health. The emphasis on form and stability appeals to students who want to avoid injury while still improving strength and flexibility. For athletes in particular, Pilates has become a useful cross‑training tool. For non‑athletes, it offers a way to stay active without the intimidation of a weight room or the pressure of competitive sports.
Abby Edwards (11), a varsity lacrosse player, also enjoys going to Pilates classes when she can.
“Pilates fits in my schedule on the weekends because I have lacrosse practice after school,” Edwards said. “I would definitely recommend it to others because its a low-intensity workout but it gets you stronger.”
Social media has also played a major role in the trend’s growth. Online creators have popularized Pilates by promoting “gentle strength” and “slow burn” workouts that focus on technique rather than speed. These short videos often highlight the benefits of core strength, posture improvement and mobility, which resonate with students who want visible progress without extreme intensity. The approachable tone of these workouts has helped Pilates feel more inclusive than some other fitness trends.
Even with its growing popularity, Pilates is not replacing other forms of exercise. Instead, it has become part of a broader mix of routines students use depending on their goals. Compared with running, Pilates offers less cardio but more targeted strength work. Compared with weightlifting, it feels less intimidating and requires less equipment. Compared with yoga, it focuses more on muscle engagement than stretching or meditation. Students who prefer fast‑paced workouts sometimes find Pilates too slow, while others appreciate the structure and consistency.
Kaunaria Geter (11) said she gave Pilates a try and noticed benefits once she started.
“I tried Pilates because I was curious and I wanted to try something new,” Geter said. “Pilates helped me with being more controlled with my movements. It also helped with flexibility.”
Another factor driving the trend is the mental‑health component. Pilates’ focus on breath control and intentional movement creates a built‑in pause during busy school weeks. For students balancing AP classes, extracurriculars and college preparation, the slower pace can be grounding. The routine offers a way to stay active without adding stress, which has made it appealing to students looking for a healthier balance.
Accessibility has also contributed to Pilates’ growth. With countless free online classes available on YouTube or TikTok and minimal equipment required, it is one of the most affordable fitness options for students. Many routines can be done at home with nothing more than a mat or towel, making it easy for students to try Pilates before committing to a studio or structured program. This flexibility has helped the trend spread quickly, especially among students who prefer working out privately rather than in a gym setting.
Lilly Gibbs (11) said she enjoys Pilates and finds it easy to incorporate alongside her athletic and academic commitments.
“It does not take long to find a quick Pilates workout, so it does not interfere with my practice or schoolwork,” Gibbs said. “I definitely would recommend it to others because it is an easy way to get in a workout, you can find multiple videos on YouTube, and it is super beneficial if you are a student athlete.”
The combination of strength training, low‑impact movement and mental‑health benefits align with what many students are looking for in a workout routine. Whether used as cross‑training for sports or as a single form of exercise, Pilates has established itself as a part of SHS students’ as well as the wider community of young adults’ approach to fitness.
