Why Pilates is emerging as the wellness and performance discipline of 2025 ?

Pilates : benefits, popularity, and scientific validation

Once confined to niche studios and a select clientele, Pilates has now emerged as one of the most popular and recommended disciplines in the world of sports and wellness. This hybrid method combining body control, breathing, deep muscle strengthening, and mindfulness appeals to both amateur athletes and professionals.
In this article, we dive into the reasons behind its rise, the scientifically validated benefits, and the data supporting its effectiveness.

A global boom in popularity

Pilates has seen a remarkable rise in recent years. According to the Global Wellness Institute, mind-body practices have grown by 30% between 2019 and 2024, with Pilates ranked among the most practiced disciplines alongside yoga (Global Wellness Institute, 2023).
The RunRepeat Fitness Industry Report shows a 38% global increase in Pilates practitioners between 2021 and 2024. In France, nearly 20% of people have tried a Pilates class, and over 62% of regular practitioners are women aged 25 to 45 (France Active Coaching).
Since 2020, demand for online classes and Pilates apps has surged by 75%, driven by platforms like Alo Moves, Pilates Anytime, or Decathlon Coach (Global Wellness Institute, 2023).

Why is Pilates so attractive?

One of its main strengths is accessibility. It suits all levels, requires little equipment, and can be done both in studios and at home.
It pairs easily with other disciplines like strength training, running, or team sports. Beyond the physical, Pilates has a strong impact on mental health, improving stress regulation and emotional balance through controlled breathing and mindfulness (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022).

Science-backed benefits of Pilates

Deep muscle strengthening
A meta-analysis of 15 studies published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies showed a 20% average increase in core strength after just 8 weeks of regular practice. This deep engagement of stabilizing muscles improves posture and helps prevent lower back pain.

Stress and anxiety reduction
According to Harvard Health Publishing, regular Pilates practice reduces anxiety symptoms by 28% through controlled breathing and concentration. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which supports relaxation and recovery.

Weight management and body composition
A 60-minute Pilates session can burn between 200 and 400 calories depending on intensity and level (Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 2021). It improves muscle tone and leads to a 4.1% average reduction in abdominal fat after 12 weeks.

Bone health and osteoporosis prevention
The Menopause Journal reports that Pilates positively impacts bone density in perimenopausal and menopausal women through weight-bearing exercises, reducing osteoporosis and fracture risks.

Pilates in elite athlete training
Many elite athletes now incorporate Pilates into their training for mobility, proprioception, and injury prevention.
Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed using Pilates to maintain mobility and reduce injury risk. Since 2023, Manchester City has included weekly Pilates in player conditioning. Tennis stars like Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic also mix Pilates with yoga to enhance performance (Sports Medicine, 2023).
A Sports Medicine study found that Pilates improves proprioception by 35% and reduces musculoskeletal injuries by 21%, particularly in high-intensity athletes.

Pilates in rehab and preventive health
Pilates is increasingly used by physiotherapists and osteopaths in functional rehab and chronic pain prevention.
According to the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, it reduces lower back pain by 30–50% after just 8 weeks of regular practice.
For seniors, it improves joint mobility and balance by 25% in just 3 months.

Energy expenditure and targeted muscles
Depending on the session type and intensity, Pilates burns 200–400 calories. Core muscles such as the transverse abdominis, obliques, pelvic floor, glutes, hamstrings, and deep spinal muscles are the main focus (Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 2023).

A scientifically validated, comprehensive discipline
Far from being a passing trend, Pilates is now a proven method for building deep strength, improving posture and mobility, preventing injuries, reducing stress, and preserving bone health.
Whether you're a high-level athlete or just looking for balance and wellness, Pilates deserves a place in your weekly routine.