Mar 18, 2024 - Things to Do

Charlotte's hooked on Pilates

sign that reads solidcore outside of a studio location in charlotte — [solidcore] was the most popular Pilates class for Charlotteans on ClassPass. Photo: Brianna Crane/Axios

We're no longer in the heyday of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) and CrossFit. Now, low-impact workouts — and particularly Pilates — are all the rage for Charlotteans.

Why it matters: As longevity becomes a primary health focus, a growing number of exercisers are opting for movements that advance their day-to-day functioning and better protect them from injury.

By the numbers: In Charlotte, Pilates ClassPass bookings increased 234.94% in 2023, compared to 2022, according to data shared with Axios.

The most popular Pilates class on the fitness booking platform was [solidcore].
Across the U.S., Pilates was the most popular ClassPass workout of 2023, according to data shared with Axios.
And Yelp searches for Pilates increased 25% from the previous year.

Local favorites: Aside from trendy chain [solidcore], these spots are worth checking out.

Core 704 and its club-like atmosphere with neon lights and EDM pumping throughout the class.
Arrichion for a heated pilates class.
Bodyrok, which just opened in LoSo.
Full guide to pilates studios in Charlotte

The big picture: The surge in interest in workouts like Pilates has to do with a workout mindset shift.

Many people now exercise primarily for health and longevity reasons.
Almost 29% of consumers say they exercise for a long and healthy life, compared to 20% the year before, according to survey data from exercise platform Mindbody.
More than one-third of Americans say they prefer low-intensity training exclusively, according to Mindbody.

What we're watching: "Functional fitness" is the workout buzzword of the moment.

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Charlotte's hooked on Pilates

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