The pilates industry surged in popularity last year and shows no sign of stopping as the city’s fitness scene continues to expand well beyond the 2025 boom.
In the past year alone, more than five new Pilates studios and classes have launched across Nottingham, reflecting the rise in demand for the exercise across genders and ages.
Pilates combines strength with balance and mindfulness, creating a low-impact, full-body workout system through slow, controlled movements.
One of the city’s latest additions is Oasis Pilates, based in the historic Gothic House on Barker Gate in the city centre.
The studio is celebrating its first anniversary this month and is part of a wider network of Pilates locations within walking distance of one another.
According to Nottingham-based instructor Wendy Lu, demand recently has been relentless, she said: “Obviously in the past year there’s been a surge in people interested in taking up Pilates, and despite what people may think, this isn’t just for ‘Instagram pictures’, it’s so much more than that.
“I’m only able to take on a fixed number of clients as I prefer to do smaller sized sessions.
“People struggle to book lessons because I’m so busy, and it’s the same for other studios with group sessions in the area.”
While Pilates has traditionally been associated with women, that perception is changing.
“There’s definitely been an increase in men doing Pilates,” Lu said.
“Lots of my female clients who are married come with their husbands for couple sessions.
“Most men think it’s going to be easy, then they realise how hard it actually is, and they keep coming back when they see the benefits.”
Studios are also seeing wider age representation, from older adults to male athletes using Pilates for injury recovery, particularly hamstring issues.
“The demand is so high, and I don’t see it slowing down any time soon.”
Wendy Lu, Instructor
Beyond the physical benefits, Lu highlights the mental appeal, she said: “Our environment is calming so that people leave feeling refreshed and more relaxed, they don’t have to think about work, kids or stress.”
With summer sessions already fully booked and more studios expected to open, Lu believes the market has not yet peaked, she said: “I don’t think the UK Pilates market is at its peak yet.
“The demand is so high, and I don’t see it slowing down any time soon.”
