In a bustling Pilates class, the instructor's voice cuts through the music, urging participants to "stay in your body" as they endure a challenging inner thigh circuit. For many, including those who have practiced mat Pilates for years, the allure of reformer Pilates is hard to ignore. This method, which utilizes a reformer machine for added resistance and support, has surged in popularity, becoming the most booked class on ClassPass for two consecutive years. Google searches for reformer Pilates have also increased since 2022.

Pilates is known for enhancing core strength, flexibility, and balance, even with just one session per week. It can also provide stress relief and help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Notably, for individuals aged 60 and older, Pilates may slow the aging process. However, the workout has often been associated with a narrow ideal of beauty, sometimes perceived as a trend for the affluent.

Despite concerns about societal pressures regarding body image, many are embracing reformer Pilates. The Daily Pilates studio, a smaller chain in the South, promotes a blend of Pilates, design, and wellness. The studio's atmosphere resembles a spa more than a traditional gym, featuring aesthetically pleasing decor and a calming ambiance. Participants often arrive in stylish athleisure wear, which can amplify feelings of self-consciousness for newcomers.

The origins of Pilates date back to the 1920s when Joseph Pilates, a German physical education instructor, developed the system to aid athletes and injured soldiers. Initially called Contrology, the method evolved into what we now know as Pilates, with a focus on both mat and reformer exercises. The intensity of classes can vary widely, with some leaving participants drenched in sweat while others emphasize slow, deliberate movements.

Faye Linda Wachs, a sports sociologist, notes that many Pilates classes emphasize achieving "lean, toned muscles," a body type often associated with white, northern European women. This ideal can perpetuate social class and racialized standards of beauty, even if not all classes explicitly promote these ideals. The cost of reformer Pilates classes can also be prohibitive, with some studios charging significantly more than traditional gym memberships.

Cultural perceptions of Pilates have shifted over the years. In the past, it was often marketed with titles that emphasized weight loss and body transformation. Today, social media influencers showcase their Pilates routines, further intertwining fitness with aesthetics. The rise of TikTok has popularized the "Pink Pilates Princess" archetype, reflecting a trend where appearance often overshadows the health benefits of the practice.

As societal standards of beauty continue to evolve, Pilates remains a complex intersection of health and appearance. Historical perspectives reveal that the pursuit of thinness has long been ingrained in Western culture, with women seeking various means to achieve this ideal. The resurgence of reformer Pilates aligns with current trends that favor toned physiques, making it a relevant choice for many seeking both fitness and aesthetic goals.