Reformer Pilates demand surges among young women

A new report from fitness chain SATS shows demand for Reformer Gravity Pilates classes rose 476% between 1 January and 15 June 2026, with Hot Pilates up 224%.

Women account for 90.5% of participants, and one-third are aged 20–29, according to SATS.

Reformer Pilates uses a spring-resistant machine to perform exercises lying or seated, engaging core and peripheral muscles. The format blends fitness with mindfulness and a strong aesthetic, often shared on social media.

Ida Nyholm, 19, began classes at Puregym about a year ago. Initially skeptical of the polished online images, she now attends twice weekly in Copenhagen’s Vesterbro district.

“It’s a good break from daily life,” she said. “When I leave, I feel light in my body.”

Fysioterapeut Hugo Petersen of Nørrebro Fysioterapi said the method offers a gentle way to train the core, making it especially effective for people with injuries, including post-partum women.

Trend researcher Louise Byg Kongsholm of Pej Gruppen said the boom reflects a shift in priorities. “Reformer Pilates signals an identity: ‘I have my mental health in order,’ not just ‘I am fit.’ For young women, wellness has become a status consumption—almost morally charged.”

Clothing brand Exercere, which started as a small Instagram shop, reported a million-danish-krone surplus in 2024. Kongsholm said the brand succeeds by selling access to a world where prioritizing mental and physical health is prestigious.

Men make up 9.5% of Reformer participants at SATS, a figure that is rising.