2026 Pilates Predictions from the industry’s top CEO’s
We asked leading global CEO’s for their predictions for 2026 and actionable takeaways for studio owners…..
Polestar Pilates
Dr. Brent Anderson
Founder of Polestar Pilates
All research today in fitness and rehabilitation show that Pilates is in the top 3 if not number 1 movement modality. The growing demand for Pilates in the large fitness chains, boutique studios, and medical facilities are all on the rise. The demand for qualified Pilates teachers goes up significantly every year, and we are no where close to saturation in the global market. Ask me, what is the future of Pilates? Overwhelmingly bright!
Merrithew®
Jim Heidenreich
CEO, Merrithew®
The year ahead signals a powerful phase of expansion for the global Pilates industry. Consumer demand for mindful movement, instructor-led experiences, and high-quality equipment continues to accelerate across studios, clubs, hospitality, and at-home environments. As new demographics enter Pilates and group Reformer formats gain mainstream traction, the industry is shifting from niche to necessity. This creates significant opportunity for those who deliver consistency, quality, and innovation. Merrithew and STOTT PILATES are focused on leading this growth through
elevated education, reliable equipment, and digital solutions that help studios scale sustainably.
Stay close to your clients by offering consistent education, refreshed programming, and clear pathways for progression. This is the fastest way to drive loyalty, retention, and revenue.
Basi Systems
Matthijs Wilhelmus
Former CEO, Basi Systems
While Pilates has entered the mainstream in many countries around the world in 2025, 2026 will see the practice spread even further, driven by faster adoption from major players in the fitness industry. Although quality will always remain a topic of debate, the good news is that this growth will help even more people experience Pilates; and that’s something we can all get behind.
While Pilates has entered the mainstream in many countries around the world in 2025, 2026 will see the practice spread even further, driven by faster adoption from major players in the fitness industry. Although quality will always remain a topic of debate, the good news is that this growth will help even more people experience Pilates; and that’s something we can all get behind.
For a Pilates studio, this should be seen as a very positive development: more people will become aware of the benefits of Pilates, and just as there’s room in our world for both McDonald’s and Michelin-starred restaurants, success will come through differentiation, particularly in the quality of instruction and equipment.
KX Pilates
Selina Bridge
CEO, KX Pilates
Pilates is no longer seen as a fleeting TikTok trend or passing fad. Those who "jumped on the bandwagon" in 2025 now truly appreciate the deeper benefits - both physical and mental - that Pilates offers. It’s become more than just a workout; it’s a valued lifestyle choice by the masses. In 2026, Pilates is here to stay.
Think long-term, not short-term. Focus on building a strong reputation and a name that stands for integrity and excellence. Don’t chase trends either. Stand out by being consistent in the quality of your teaching, your genuine passion for helping others, and your commitment to continuous learning and growth. When you lead with purpose and professionalism, the right opportunities will find you.
Pilates Addiction
Sarah Luna
CEO, Pilates Addiction
“Pilates will dominate the fitness industry the way HIIT did a decade ago. In 2026, people will shift toward efficient, intelligent training that actually builds longevity -- and that’s where Pilates Addiction will lead in the category. The era of break down workouts is over; Pilates is how people will build themselves up.”
Provide your members with movements that translate to real-world strength....Make Pilates feel powerful -- your clients should walk out stronger!
STRONG Pilates
Michael Ramsey
Co-founder of STRONG Pilates
"Pilates continues to be the most popular fitness format around the world, and we can expect to see continued innovation driven by growing competition, the rise of hybrid formats and the role of technology in personalising the fitness experience.
With more studios and gyms offering Pilates alongside other complementary disciplines, it's clear that consumers are seeking holistic solutions that meet multiple fitness needs. My key takeaway for studios and instructors is to understand what the customer really wants from their fitness experience so you can evolve and define your point of difference."
Balanced Body®
Ken Endelman
Founder & President Balanced Body
Pilates begins its second century in 2026. This longevity – and continued power of the Pilates brand -- is unheard of in the fitness industry.
Maintaining the trajectory is our responsibility and opportunity. We cultivate the Pilates brand by ensuring our clients know that Pilates supports bodies and minds at all ages. Pilates is a progressive methodology built on quality of movement and most effective when guided by skilled instructors dedicated to supporting individual goals.
iFIT
Yvette McGaffin
Director of Product Marketing Pilates, iFIT
In 2026, Pilates will enter its ‘intelligent era.’ We’ll see reformers and platforms that quietly adapt to the individual, measuring effort, guiding alignment, and elevating technique without breaking the flow. Technology won’t replace instructors; it will empower them, creating more personalised, precise, and intuitive experiences. Pilates will feel more connected, more accessible, and more elevated than ever before.
Studios should start exploring tech partnerships that enhance, not disrupt their teaching.
Arketa
Rachel Lea Fishman
CEO, Arketa
"Pilates is poised for another massive growth year, driven by its unique ability to retain clients longer than almost any other modality. At Arketa, we’re seeing instructors want to get certified on an apparatus, so that they can teach multiple modalities, digital engagement, and overall revenue. From reformer to mat, Pilates continues to bridge boutique fitness and wellness, proving it’s not just a workout it's a movement with staying power."
"You can charge more for classes and especially privates when equipment is involved because clients don’t have it at home. If you’re a class-only reformer studio or a mat studio, finding a way to carve out a space for equipment-based privates will help drive up your revenue!"