The Pilates Craze

By Emerson Driscoll

Movora / @movoralifestyle via Pinterest 

The workout craze has completely exploded in the past few years. We’ve gone from “hot girl walks” to StairMaster and treadmill workouts, to lifting lighter weights, to Pilates—the one workout that has stuck with so many people recently. But why is it so popular? You see your favorite influencers glamorizing it as part of the “Pilates princess” lifestyle, and others raving about the results. Here’s why you should give it a try—and why everyone loves it.

First, what is Pilates? It’s a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on core strength, alignment, flexibility and building a mind-body connection. It was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, originally as a rehabilitation method. Today, the workout can be done on either a mat or a reformer.

Since COVID-19 hit, we’ve seen a wellness boom, with more people prioritizing health and engaging in simple, home-friendly workouts. Pilates offers versatility and can be a great way to relieve stress without excessive fatigue. In a world where influencers constantly promote the next best thing, Pilates has become their go-to workout—prompting followers to try it themselves. The aesthetic appeal has also played a role: matching bright-colored workout sets, a positive atmosphere, and energizing music all contribute to an uplifting experience that many people have grown to love.

There are many benefits. The workouts are core-centered, helping build strong abdominal and back muscles. Pilates can also improve posture, align and stretch muscles, and aid in injury recovery. Because it's low-impact, it’s a great option for quick movement on a busy day. It can also enhance balance and coordination and serve as a positive mental health outlet, with breathing and intentional movement designed to make you feel good.

Overall, Pilates isn’t just a workout—it can be an entrance into a lifestyle focused on improving your health and well-being. Looking for a new workout? Pilates could be your new go-to.