As home fitness enthusiasts become more interested in Pilates, reformers may become as popular as treadmills and stationary bikes
Home gyms of the future may soon feature Pilates equipment, according to a new report from Technavio, which predicts the global Pilates equipment market will grow by $146.3 million from 2024 to 2028.
Although Pilates class attendance continues to grow (booking and subscription platform ClassPass notes that Pilates is the most popular workout in 2023, with bookings up 92%), classes fill up quickly, leaving many Pilates enthusiasts considering at-home toning workouts crowdsourced recommendations for brands like AeroPilates or Balanced Body.
Technavio said this demand for home fitness equipment will drive the development of the global Pilates equipment market, with 37% of the growth expected to come from North America. Pilates equipment such as Cadillacs, reformers, chairs, barrels, curved machines, mats, resistance bands, Pilates balls and rings are in high demand, the report said.
Additionally, chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, lung problems, and musculoskeletal disorders will also contribute to the expected growth of the Pilates equipment market, especially as consumers have adopted self-care habits and frequent boutique fitness studios.
Pilates equipment manufacturers compete
The leading Pilates equipment brand has made strides and appointed leadership in the last year as low-impact workouts become more mainstream. Reform RX, a company that makes commercial-grade digitally connected Pilates reformers, recently raised $5.1 million in funding to fuel its global expansion and improve user experience.
Merrithew, known for its home and commercial Pilates equipment and educational services, this summer named Jim Heidenreich as its new CEO, in part to drive product development and digital engagement as Pilates gains more fans.
“I am honored to serve as CEO of Merrithew and excited to lead a company that is not only a player in the mindful exercise industry, but a leader at the forefront of the industry,” Heidenreich said of his new role. “My passion for helping individuals live 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 dominant position in global markets, and continue to inspire people around the world to achieve optimal health.”
In September, Merrithew launched Cross-Bow Handles, a complement to its stability chairs that provide Pilates enthusiasts with balance and stability. The handles also allow Pilates instructors to provide personalized support to clients and their specific needs.
basic systems inc.Another leading Pilates equipment manufacturer launched an innovation this summer, the Basi Systems Compact Reformer, which CEO Matthijs Wilhelmus said is a space-saving solution that meets changing market needs.
“With the rise of large group classes, there is a growing need for fast, easily adjustable equipment that maximizes space efficiency and caters for all levels of experience,” Williams said of the new compact reformer Shi said. Wilhelmus was appointed CEO last year to lead Basi System’s expansion plans.
Technavio’s Pilates Equipment Market Analysis Report is available at here.
