Pilates Equipment Poised to Become Next Home Gym Addition
Pilates Reformers may become as commonplace as treadmills and stationary bikes as home fitness fans fall deeper in love with Pilates
The home gym of the future could soon feature Pilates equipment, per a new report from Technavio, which projects the global Pilates equipment market size to grow by $146.3 million from 2024 to 2028.
Although Pilates classes are seeing increased attendance (ClassPass, a booking and subscription platform, noted Pilates was its most popular workout in 2023, with reservations up 92%), classes that rapidly fill up have led many Pilates fans to consider at-home reformers, crowdsourcing recommendations on brands like AeroPilates or Balanced Body.
Such demand for home fitness equipment is set to drive the global Pilates equipment market, according to Technavio, with 37% of the growth expected to originate from North America. Pilates equipment such as cadillacs, reformers, chairs, barrels, arcs, mats, resistance bands, Pilates balls, and rings are all in high demand, according to the report.
Additionally, chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, lung problems, and musculoskeletal disorders contribute to the expected Pilates equipment market growth, particularly as consumers have adopted self-care routines and frequent boutique fitness studios.
Pilates Equipment Makers Compete
Leading Pilates equipment brands have been making advancements and leadership appointments in the last year as the low-impact workout has gone mainstream. Reform RX, a company that makes a commercial-grade, digitally connected Pilates reformer, recently landed $5.1 million in funding to drive its global expansion and advance the user experience.
Merrithew, known for its at-home and commercial Pilates equipment and educational services, appointed Jim Heidenreich as its new CEO over the summer, in part to drive product development and digital engagement as Pilates gains more fans.
“I am honored to step into the role of CEO at Merrithew and excited to lead a company that is not just a participant in the mindful movement industry but a leader at its forefront,” Heidenreich said of his new role. “My passion for empowering individuals to lead healthier lives aligns perfectly with Merrithew’s mission. Through strategic initiatives in education, product development, and digital engagement, we are committed to ensuring Merrithew strengthens its prominence in the global market and continues to inspire people worldwide to achieve optimal wellness.”
In September, Merrithew unveiled Cross-Bow Handles, an addition to the stability chair that provides Pilates enthusiasts with balance and stability. The handles also allow Pilates instructors to provide personalized support for clients and their specific needs.
Basi Systems, another leading Pilates equipment maker, launched an innovation over the summer with its Basi Systems Compact Reformer—a space-saving solution that satisfies evolving market demand, according to CEO Matthijs Wilhelmus.
“With the rise of larger group classes, there is a growing need for quick, easily adjustable equipment that maximizes space efficiency and caters to all levels of experience,” Wilhelmus said of the new compact reformer. Wilhelmus was appointed CEO last year to lead Basi System’s expansion plans.
Technavio’s Pilates Equipment Market Analysis report can be found here.
