Pilates is currently the exercise class in vogue. Dancers and elite athletes are big fans, and now studios across the country are bustling. If you've never tried Pilates, we highly recommend giving it a go. Developed by German trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, this exercise regimen is gentle on the body but highly effective for strengthening the core and improving posture.
If you're keen to enhance your flexibility and strength, London boasts several excellent Pilates studios. Whether they're mat-based, drawing inspiration from ballet, or utilising a reformer machine, these enjoyable and sophisticated classes will leave you feeling revitalised. Feeling intrigued by your newfound flexibility? Consider giving one of London's yoga classes a try next.
1. Frame
The incredibly stylish Frame studios specialize in reformer Pilates, making them the perfect choice if you're new to those intriguing spring-loaded beds equipped with neck supports and straps. Their introductory Pilates reformer class will guide you through the techniques at a comfortable pace. Once you've gained some experience with a few sessions, you can transition to their regular classes. Additionally, they offer a dynamic class tailored for those seeking an intense core workout.
You can find Frame studios in Angel, Hammersmith, King’s Cross, Shoreditch, and Victoria. Drop-in rates range from £16 to £23 per class, with more affordable options available if you purchase a Frame Card.
2. Ten Health & Fitness
Ten Health & Fitness offers intimate pilates classes, limiting each session to just 10 participants. This ensures a personalised training experience with ample hands-on coaching from the instructors. The classes primarily take place on reformer platforms, providing a comfortable transition between your bed at home and your desk at work on a Monday morning. If you're new to reformer Pilates, your instructor will provide guidance on using the machine before the session begins. Additionally, there are dedicated beginner classes each week to help newcomers get started.
Facilities at Ten Health & Fitness are excellent, with amenities such as towels, Ren products in the showers, and even GHD straighteners, allowing you to travel light.
Their locations include Chiswick, The City, Fitzrovia, Hatton Garden, Little Venice, Nine Elms, Notting Hill, Notting Hill Gate, Tottenham Court Road, and St James’s. Classes are priced at £35 each or available at a discounted rate if you block book.
3. Blok
We're enthusiastic supporters of Blok's incredibly stylish studios in Clapton and Shoreditch. While the converted warehouse spaces boast exposed brick, poured concrete, and steel beams, the mat Pilates classes are held in warm, softly lit rooms. These classes offer a challenge for Pilates enthusiasts while remaining accessible for complete beginners. It's a rigorous workout where dynamic movements seamlessly flow together, accompanied by an energising soundtrack that helps keep you engaged, even during the toughest moments.
You can find Blok studios at The Tram Depot, 38-40 Upper Clapton Rd, E5 8BQ, and Principal Place, 2 Hearn Street, EC2A 3BR. The cost for a single class is £28, with more economical options available if you purchase class packs.
4. Exhale Pilates
For Pilates enthusiasts seeking a classical experience, Exhale is the ideal studio. Here, you'll find an array of intriguing equipment, including reformers, towers with chains and coils, a cadillac, wunda chairs and barrels, an electric chair, and plenty of magic circles. While this collection might seem daunting at first glance, the studio's atmosphere is made welcoming by the highly knowledgeable, friendly, and energetically infectious instructors, as well as the small class sizes.
Exhale stays true to the traditional Pilates methods originally designed by Joseph Pilates himself. Despite the unconventional-looking equipment, the focus remains on precise movement and proper form. The exercises are at the forefront here, so the studio maintains a simple aesthetic, though locker and shower facilities are available downstairs at The Fitness Mosaic.
You can find Exhale studios in Primrose Hill and North Finchley. Drop-in rates are £50, but you can enjoy more affordable options by booking classes in advance.
5. Core Kensington
At Core Kensington, you'll find a cosy atmosphere with only four reformer beds, ensuring intimate classes where every movement is carefully observed. This setup allows for personalised attention, ensuring that no incorrect moves go unnoticed – a definite advantage. The instructors are both knowledgeable and supportive, guiding participants through a one-hour session of classic Pilates exercises. The classes cater to individuals of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Additionally, there are 30-minute orientation sessions available to help newcomers get acquainted with the equipment and techniques.
Located at 375 Kensington High Street, W14 8AZ, Core Kensington offers an introductory package of two classes for £35. After that, single bookings are priced at £35 each, with more affordable options available through block booking.
6. The Refinery
As one of the trendiest spots for a workout in East London, The Refinery's Pilates class promises an experience far from ordinary. They offer a variety of fantastic classes suitable for both novices and seasoned practitioners alike. "Mattitude" is a lively and dynamic session where participants engage in mat exercises alongside some barre work, incorporating resistance bands, dumbbells, and Pilates balls. "Hard-Core" is specifically designed to target and strengthen your core muscles, while "Pilates Yin and Yang" provides a challenging 40-minute mat workout followed by 20 minutes of deeply relaxing stretches.
Despite its cute and colourful studio vibe (complete with a furry friend), don't underestimate the intensity of a session here – it's far from child's play. Come prepared to bring your best effort, and you'll fit right in.
You can find The Refinery at 14 Collent St, E9 6SG. The first class costs £8, with subsequent classes priced at an average of £15 each. Class passes are also available for added convenience.
7. LIM Studios
Founded by Pilates teacher Isobel Palmer, LIM Studio is a light and calming space in Highbury (you can even pause for a herbal tea if you need to destress before you hit the mat), but classes here pack a powerful punch. Book onto Lim Signature for a challenging yet upbeat mix of barre and Pilates that’ll leave you with wobbly legs. The mat Pilates classes are great here, too – expect a focus on technique from instructors who really know their stuff – while there’s a range of yoga classes on the timetable if you never want to do ‘the hundred’ again. Chances are you will, though – Isobel’s cheery and positive demeanour is totally infectious.
location: 114 Highbury Park, N5 2XE. £10 for first studio class, studio drop-in £17. Cheaper options if you block book.
8. Pilates HQ
For those seeking ultimate tube convenience, Pilates HQ is a prime choice with its small yet conveniently located fourth-floor studio just seconds away from Angel underground station. While the setup may be simple, the studio benefits from ample natural light (and the occasional aroma of fried chicken from nearby Upper Street takeaways – whether that's a plus or minus is up to you to decide).
The lunchtime Reformer Pilates session caters perfectly to beginners looking to squeeze in some core-strengthening during work hours. The class sizes are just right for the space, ensuring the instructor can offer attentive guidance without making participants feel too exposed. The sessions primarily revolve around the use of reformer machines, with a significant emphasis on using the thigh-squeezing resistance ring. The relaxed pace may not immediately register, but rest assured, you'll feel the effects the next day.
Pilates HQ is located on the 4th Floor, 17 Islington High St, N1 9LQ. Peak classes (Mon-Fri 5.30pm-8.30pm and weekends) are priced at £25 per class, while off-peak classes (Mon-Fri 6am-5pm) are £22 per class.
9. TriYoga
Despite its name, TriYoga offers much more than just yoga. With studios located in Camden, Chelsea, Shoreditch, and Ealing, each venue provides a wide range of yoga and Pilates classes, holistic treatments, and features a juice bar and a small shop. The atmosphere is incredibly friendly and inclusive, with staff who are both informative and knowledgeable without any hint of snootiness.
TriYoga offers mat-based Pilates suitable for all levels, as well as equipment-based classes and one-on-one sessions for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Additionally, they provide warm Pilates sessions where you can practice a slower set of movements in a room heated to 35 degrees Celsius. The studios are bright, airy, and all equipment is freely available for use.
You can find TriYoga locations in Camden, Chelsea, Ealing, and Shoreditch. They offer a beginner's pack for £39, which includes three classes. Single classes are priced at £30 each, with discounted rates available for block bookings.
10. Paola’s Body Barre
Fulham's Pilates enthusiasts rave about PBB, and it's easy to see why with its chic studio and stylish merchandise. PBB's barre dynamic Pilates core class seamlessly blends mat-based Pilates with ballet barre exercises. In this invigorating 50-minute session, expect to break a sweat while performing moves reminiscent of those in 'Swan Lake'. But don't be fooled – you'll be pushed to your limits, with plenty of cardio elements incorporated into the class. By the time Paola finishes with you, you'll have a newfound appreciation for pliés.
Located at 2 Fulham High St, SW6 3LQ, a single class at PBB is priced at £30. They also offer introductory offers and block booking options for added convenience.