Building a Career in Pilates:
New Research Shows Unprecedented Growth and Opportunities

Our latest survey reveals that pursuing a career in Pilates has never been more promising, with instructor demand reaching record levels. For those passionate about mind-body wellness and helping others transform their lives, becoming a Pilates instructor offers an incredibly rewarding career path.

We surveyed 800 Pilates instructors globally, and the results are compelling. The Pilates industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with studios expanding, classes filling up, and an increasing demand for qualified instructors. What’s particularly exciting is that nearly all our surveyed instructors express deep job satisfaction and eagerly share their passion with both clients and aspiring teachers.

Our key research findings highlight:

• 77% of Pilates studios report growth, with 67% consistently selling out classes
• The Pilates instructor career path has seen a 15% increase since 2015, with 34% of current instructors starting within the last 7 years
• Almost 40% of studio owners indicate an urgent need for more instructors, while 30% are actively recruiting

“Now is an ideal time to become a Pilates instructor,” shares Joy Puleo, our Director of Education at Balanced Body Education.

“This new research underscores the demand for Pilates is higher than ever, and – with the increasing awareness of the importance of the mind-body connection, core strength and flexibility – more and more people are seeking out Pilates as a way to improve their overall health and fitness. With participation at an all-time high, the demand has never been greater for passionate and enthusiastic industries.”

Beyond market demand, our research reveals the profound career satisfaction among Pilates instructors:

• 72% report high career satisfaction
• An impressive 89% strongly agree they love their career in Pilates 
• 92% recommending it as an excellent career choice
• 79% consistently look forward to their workday

These findings reinforce that pursuing a career as a Pilates instructor isn’t just about following market trends – it’s about embracing a truly fulfilling professional path that allows you to make a meaningful impact while doing what you love.

What makes a Pilates instructor career so rewarding? Our research reveals it’s the perfect blend of passion for movement, the joy of helping others transform their lives, and the personal wellness benefits instructors experience daily.

Our survey highlights that:

• 94% of instructors find deep satisfaction in helping clients achieve life-changing results
• 89% experience a profound sense of purpose through their teaching
• 85% report significant improvements in their own physical health and fitness

Building a career in Pilates offers unmatched flexibility and fulfillment. Whether you choose to teach full-time or part-time, Pilates instructors enjoy diverse teaching opportunities while maintaining control over their schedules.

Findings show:

• 84% appreciate flexible scheduling, typically teaching 4-5 hours daily or 15-20 hours weekly
• 40% successfully balance Pilates instruction with another primary career
• 33% are parents, with 70% reporting that their Pilates career perfectly complements their family life

“Pilates is a career that has allowed me to combine my passion for mind + movement, my love of teaching, and my desire to help others,” shares Mychele Sims, a federal agency investigator with over two decades of experience who successfully pursued her dream of becoming a certified Pilates instructor while managing her primary career.

As the proud owner of Get2Werk Pilates Studio, Mychele reflects on her incredible journey: “Becoming a Pilates instructor ultimately led me to achieve another career goal–owning my own Pilates studio, which I never dreamed possible while juggling two careers. Now, eight years later, I feel a great sense of pride knowing how many lives we have touched and enhanced through Pilates. My online studio is growing rapidly, and I am always looking to mentor more dedicated and passionate instructors, particularly as I plan my retirement from the legal system and continue to expand my practice.”

If you’re passionate about mindful movement, wellness, and making a difference in people’s lives, now is the perfect time to explore a career in Pilates. Begin your journey today.

Survey Methodology

Our comprehensive online survey gathered insights from 800 Pilates instructors worldwide between October 23rd and November 6th, 2024. All participants were Balanced Body affiliated instructors. The survey comprised 42 questions, with an average completion time of 10-15 minutes. The margin of error is + or – 3.4%.