Final Verdict
Online Pilates classes provide students of all levels with an alternative to studio classes. By taking a class online, you save money, have access to an extensive library of programs and educational videos, and can squeeze in a Pilates routine on your time.
Our best overall pick, Pilatesology, offers comprehensive programs, like the Intermediate Mat Blast Workout, that allow you to move through a series of classes that get progressively more difficult. Plus, you can access over 1,900 other Pilates classes with the affordable monthly subscription plan. If you are new to Pilates and what to see what it's all about without breaking the bank, give Lottie Murphy's free 30-minute Ultimate Pilates Toning Workout a try.
Guide to Choosing the Best Online Pilates Classes
What Are Online Pilates Classes?
Pilates classes are a mix of core work, total body toning, and flexibility that improve overall strength and posture alignment. Classes are generally 10 to 45 minutes long and include a thorough warmup and cool-down. The basic Pilates mat classes are appropriate for all fitness levels, and you don’t need to be familiar with the method to start. Once you’ve mastered the core principles and exercises, you can move on to intermediate and advanced Pilates classes that introduce new exercises, incorporate props, combine mat with barre, and add cardio intervals.
How to Choose an Online Pilates Class
Choosing an online Pilates class to fit your needs is individual. While it may take some trial and error to find what works for you, there are a few factors to consider.
- Class level: If you're new to Pilates, it’s a good idea to start with a structured beginner program that gets progressively more difficult. These programs typically have eight to 12 classes that build on each other. Once you finish an introductory program, you can move to standalone classes that fit your time and workout needs. But, if Pilates is your wheelhouse, a subscription-based service with a comprehensive library of intermediate and advanced classes is the way to go.
- Pilates type: Pilates classes include several formats like mat, Reformer, ball, barre, and circle. If you want variety, choose a plan that offers different styles of Pilates. Take note of the props needed to participate in different styles.
- Cost: Online Pilates classes can range in cost from free to over $20 a month. Try choosing a program with at least a seven-day free trial before subscribing.
- Equipment required: Pilates mat classes can be done in a small space with just a mat. But, if you’re interested in other class types, you may need to invest in a Pilates ball, magic circle, resistance bands, block, or small hand-held weights.
- Instructor experience: Pilates is an exercise modality with specific movements, techniques, and cues. Choosing classes with experienced instructors is key, especially if you are new to the practice. When shopping for an online platform, check out the instructor bios and look for Pilates-specific certifications, personal training or group instructor certifications, continuing education hours, years of training, and other professional expertise, like teachers who are also physical therapists or professional dancers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pilates Classes Worth It?
Most platforms offer a free class or trial period that allows you to try it before committing to a membership. Plus, many have introductory classes and don't require much, if any, equipment to get started, so your upfront costs will be minimal to none. Advantages include the flexibility to work at your own pace and from the comfort of home as you improve stamina, endurance, and overall fitness.
Is Pilates Good for My Health?
Pilates as an exercise can have both physical and mental health benefits. It improves posture, flexibility, and cardiovascular function, as well as tones muscles. It can also help with stress relief and overall mental health and well-being.
Who Should Take Pilates Classes?
Pilates is a low-impact activity that is appropriate for most people—a great option for new moms to incorporate into their postpartum workout plan, for instance—but if you’re new to this exercise style or you’ve never taken a Pilates class, it’s a good idea to start with a beginner or introductory course, regardless of your fitness level. Most of a mat class is spent on the floor, so if lying prone or getting up and down off the ground is contraindicated, talk with your healthcare provider before trying a class. A skilled instructor will be able to offer modifications and alternatives such as chair Pilates.
What Equipment Do I Need to Take Online Pilate Classes?
At the very least, you'll want a Pilates mat, which is thicker than a regular yoga mat. You can do some classes with just a Pilates mat, but investing in resistance bands, an exercise ball, and sliders may also be beneficial. Different equipment can expand the number of exercises you do and keep Pilates challenging.
Methodology
We looked at 15 online Pilates classes for this review. Our first consideration was to find a mix of free- and subscription-based Pilates classes. A trial period was also important, and we made sure to include programs that you can try before you buy. Unlike other fitness programs, Pilates is a method that takes time to learn, so we highlighted subscription services that offer comprehensive programs that allow you to move through a series of classes that get progressively more difficult. Finally, because Pilates requires highly trained instructors, we also considered the teachers’ training and chose classes taught by experts.