Pilates Trends to Look Out for in 2026

Written By Alyse Rawlings

Pilates has exploded over the last few years, and the momentum is only growing. At Inflow, we’re always watching how the industry is shifting so we can deliver the most supportive, exciting and effective classes for our community.

As we move into 2026, Pilates is evolving in fresh, meaningful ways — blending strength, mobility, technology and wellbeing into a movement style that supports every season of life. Here are the trends we expect to shape Pilates in 2026 and how you’ll see them come to life in our studios.

1. Strength-Focused Pilates

Traditional Pilates principles aren’t going anywhere — but 2026 is seeing a big rise in strength-based classes. Think heavier springs, controlled tempo, progressive layering and stability-focused endurance work.

Studios everywhere are leaning into Pilates as a genuine strength modality, especially for women who want muscle definition without high-impact movement.

At Inflow, you’ll continue to see:

  • strength-driven sequences

  • slow burn layers

  • long tension holds

  • muscular endurance blocks

All designed to help you feel stronger, more stable and more confident in your body.

2. Recovery, Mobility & Longevity Classes

Wellness is becoming less about aesthetics and more about longevity — moving well, aging well and feeling well.

Expect to see more Pilates classes focused on:

  • mobility

  • deep stretching

  • breathwork

  • joint health

  • nervous system regulation

These sessions support busy, overstimulated lifestyles and help balance out the intensity of reformer work.

3. Hybrid & Fusion Pilates

Pilates is becoming more versatile than ever. Clients want variety while still honouring the foundations that make Pilates effective.

2026 will bring more fusion styles like:

  • Pilates + strength

  • Pilates + barre

  • Pilates + yoga flow

  • Pilates + functional conditioning

This keeps the body challenged while maintaining the low-impact, mindful style that makes Pilates so addictive.

4. Accessible Pilates for All Seasons of Life

Pilates is expanding beyond the idea of a "fitness class" and becoming genuinely inclusive.

More programming is being developed for:

  • pregnancy & postnatal clients

  • older adults

  • beginners

  • clients managing pain or injuries

  • people returning to movement after a long break

Expect an industry-wide shift toward slower, supportive, educational classes that meet clients where they are.

At Inflow, this looks like:

  • thoughtful, considered sequencing

  • instructors who cue for different abilities

  • space to honour your body each day

5. Instructor Education & Skill Development

Studios across Australia are raising their standards — and clients are expecting highly skilled teachers who can offer personalised, safe and elevated experiences.

2026 will bring a greater focus on:

  • tactile cueing

  • biomechanics

  • intelligent sequencing

  • injury-informed programming

  • continuing education and workshops

(Which aligns beautifully with your future Cue Collective platform!)

6. Smaller, Boutique Studio Experiences

Clients are craving connection, not just workouts. Large commercial gyms are becoming less appealing, while community-focused studios are becoming the heart of modern wellness.

What clients want in 2026:

  • welcoming spaces

  • supportive instructors

  • personal attention

  • consistency

  • a sense of belonging

This is why studios like Inflow continue to thrive — we prioritise connection first, movement second.

7. Tech-Enhanced Pilates

As fitness tech grows, expect to see more:

  • reformer tracking

  • smart props

  • wearable integrations

  • digital programming to support in-studio work

Not to replace the studio experience, but to enhance awareness, form, progression and accountability.

8. Mindful Movement Over “Hard Workouts”

The cultural shift away from burnout fitness is here to stay. People want sustainable, mindful movement that supports their mental and emotional wellbeing — not just aesthetics.

Pilates is perfectly positioned for this shift, offering:

  • mind-body connection

  • intentional pacing

  • nervous system benefits

  • grounded, spacious classes

Inflow clients already love this — and it’s only becoming more important in 2026.

What This Means for You

Expect Pilates in 2026 to be:

  • stronger

  • more mindful

  • more inclusive

  • more educated

  • more community-focused

  • more supportive of longevity and wellbeing

And expect Inflow to continue evolving with the industry — thoughtfully, intentionally and always with your body, your safety and your experience at the centre of what we do.

Alyse Rawlings
Next

The Power of Community in Pilates – Why Moving Together Matters.