As Pilates studios continue to refine how they engage modern members, it seems programming innovation is becoming as important as teaching excellence. At Club Pilates, the introduction of the Circuit class reflects a growing shift toward formats that prioritise variety, energy and broader apparatus exposure within the group setting.

For Vanessa Huffman, Lead Educator for Australia and New Zealand, the concept emerged from a clear opportunity within the schedule.

The Circuit class is also the latest of eight offerings within the Club Pilates programming framework. While Reformer Flow classes will continue to make up a significant portion of each studio’s timetable, Circuit is typically scheduled two to four times per week, depending on the needs and member profile of each individual studio.

“The Circuit class was developed to bring a new layer of energy, variety, and efficiency to the Club Pilates schedule. While our Reformer Flow and Fusion classes already deliver an incredible full-body workout, we saw an opportunity to create a format that allowed members to experience Pilates moves in a progressively staged format.

“We wanted to fill a space between the structured reformer format and the more dynamic training styles that many clients enjoy in other areas of fitness. The Circuit class keeps the workout engaging and varied while still maintaining the precision and control that define Pilates.”

Feedback from both instructors and clients helped shape the direction.

“Both instructors and members were asking for more variety and opportunities to use different equipment more regularly. Clients love the reformer, but there’s also a lot of curiosity around exploring other apparatus.

Instructors were also looking for ways to create a different kind of class energy, something that felt a little more dynamic while still staying within the Pilates methodology. The Circuit class is a perfect blend of what was needed.”

Unlike traditional reformer classes where the group progresses together through a shared sequence, Circuit introduces rotation and station-based focus.

“Traditionally our Reformer Flow classes follow a progressive sequence within a general outline where the whole group goes through an entire flow on a certain body part then moves on.

In Circuit classes, each station is organized so that members rotate through at least three apparatus for a focused variation at their individual section as a class while focusing on progressively difficult Pilates moves at each apparatus.

This creates a different rhythm and atmosphere. The experience feels more interactive and energetic, and members get exposure to a wider range of equipment and movements during the class.”

The programming was guided by three clear objectives.

“There were three main goals:
Variety - giving members more of an opportunity to use multiple pieces of Pilates equipment in one class.
Challenge - introducing new combinations that stimulate strength, coordination, and endurance. This is especially important for our aging population.
Energy - creating a lively and motivating environment in the studio.”

Despite the dynamic format, maintaining a distinctly Pilates identity remained essential.

“Rather than focusing on speed or intensity alone, the Circuit class still prioritizes control, alignment, breath, and precision - all of the fundamental Pilates principles.

Every station is designed with Pilates biomechanics in mind.”

Early response has been strong across studios.

“Members are enjoying the variety and novelty of moving between stations… Instructors have also embraced the format because it creates great energy in the room and allows for more creative programming.”

From Vanessa’s perspective, formats like Circuit also reflect a wider shift she is observing across studios.

“Clients today are more open to exploring different equipment and training styles, and they’re looking for experiences that feel engaging and progressive.

At the same time, instructors want opportunities to bring creativity and energy into the room while still delivering meaningful Pilates outcomes.

Introducing formats like Circuit allows us to evolve thoughtfully. It keeps members challenged and inspired while ensuring the method remains grounded in its core principles of strength, alignment, control and mindful movement.”