Life Time Expands Pilates Studios Across 2026 Openings
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
As reformer-based workouts continue to gain traction across the U.S., Life Time is leaning into a category it has supported for more than two decades.
The company says Pilates will remain a core feature of its growth strategy. In 2026, each of the 12 to 14 new Life Time locations planned will include a dedicated Pilates studio. The brand currently offers Pilates programming in more than 175 of its athletic country clubs, positioning it as one of the largest providers of both traditional Pilates and private sessions in the country.
Long before reformer workouts became one of the fastest-growing trends in fitness, Life Time had built out a broad Pilates infrastructure across its clubs. That footprint has allowed the company to scale the modality alongside other in-demand offerings as new clubs open and existing destinations expand.
According to the company, participation in private Pilates sessions increased year over year in 2025, reflecting growing member interest in low-impact strength training that emphasizes mobility, posture and long-term joint health. The broader shift toward intelligent strength training and longevity-focused programming has placed Pilates in a favorable position within multipurpose clubs.
“Pilates and reformers may be having a cultural moment, but at Life Time it's been a cornerstone for decades,” said Theresa Barone, Director of Pilates at Life Time. She added that newer formats are introducing different segments of members to the equipment, with some eventually transitioning into more traditional Pilates work.
One of those newer formats is CTR, a 45-minute reformer-based strength class that blends progressive resistance and athletic-style training in a group setting. While distinct from classical Pilates, CTR uses the reformer as a strength and performance tool. Life Time plans to offer CTR in more than 60 locations by the end of the year. The company reports that many classes continue to operate with waitlists.
At the same time, Life Time maintains a traditional Pilates program rooted in the original method established by Joseph Pilates. In addition to reformers, clubs offer equipment such as Mat, Cadillac or Tower, Chairs and Barrels, supporting private and semi-private sessions.
To support new participant acquisition, Life Time will host an Intro to Pilates weekend from February 23 to 26 across its clubs. The event is designed to introduce members and prospective members to the format in a structured setting.
