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Men Discover Pilates: Beyond Gym Bros
23 Sep
Summary
- Pilates, originally 'contrology', was created by German Joseph Pilates during WWI.
- The UK pilates and yoga market is now worth a reported £1.1bn.
- Men are increasingly taking up pilates for flexibility and injury recovery.
Pilates, a discipline founded by Joseph Pilates during World War I, is seeing a significant increase in male practitioners. Originally termed 'contrology,' this mind-body exercise has expanded its appeal beyond its traditional female-dominated audience.
The UK's pilates and yoga market is now valued at an impressive £1.1bn. Celebrities and athletes, including Harry Styles and Cristiano Ronaldo, have publicly endorsed pilates, highlighting its effectiveness for flexibility and injury rehabilitation.
Initially finding it challenging and painful, a recent convert recounts the intense physical demands of both reformer and mat pilates. Despite the difficulty, he noted improvements in core strength, flexibility, and reduced shoulder pain after a month of practice.
Experts observe that men often begin with private sessions due to shyness but eventually find greater benefit in structured classes. This growing trend signals a shift in fitness preferences, with pilates offering a less intense yet highly effective alternative to high-intensity training.
