How to find a Pilates studio

Finding a Pilates studio used to mean flicking through the phone book or a directory site. Today a quick map search will show several options in most suburbs. The challenge is not finding a studio but choosing a good one: a place with qualified instructors, a class style that suits you, a timetable you can keep and prices you can sustain.

Step 1: Decide what you are looking for

Before searching, decide which style you want to try. Use our style finder if you are unsure.

• Mat classes are offered by dedicated studios, gyms, community centres and yoga studios.
• Group reformer classes are offered by reformer studios and some gyms.
• Clinical Pilates is offered by physiotherapy and allied health practices.
• Pregnancy and postnatal classes are offered by some studios and clinics, sometimes as a separate timetable.

Step 2: Search close to home or work

The best studio is one you will actually get to. Search maps for "Pilates", "reformer Pilates" or "clinical Pilates" plus your suburb, and check the distance from home and from work. A studio that suits your commute or lunch break is far easier to stick with.

Step 3: Compare class types and timetables

Look at each studio's timetable. Does it run beginner or foundations classes at times you can attend? How many people are in a class? Reformer studios typically cap classes at the number of machines; smaller classes mean more attention from the instructor.

Step 4: Check the instructors

Pilates is not a regulated profession in Australia, so qualifications vary a lot. Look for instructors with a recognised comprehensive certification (covering mat and all major apparatus) or at least a recognised mat or reformer certification. Current first aid, insurance and membership of an industry association are good signs. Clinical Pilates should be delivered by a registered health professional, such as a physiotherapist, whose registration you can check with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Read our guide to choosing a studio.

Step 5: Understand the pricing

Studios sell casual classes, class packs and memberships. Read the terms carefully: how long packs last, cancellation windows, late fees, and how to pause or cancel a membership. We do not publish prices because they vary widely and change often; compare at least three studios near you.

Step 6: Try before you commit

Most studios offer an introductory offer or a beginner course. Use it to see whether you like the instructors, the class size, the atmosphere and the cleanliness of the equipment.

Pilates in the capital cities

Sydney and Melbourne have the largest choice, from boutique reformer studios to classical studios and clinical practices, so you can be choosy about style and location.

Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide also have a wide range of studios, with many in suburban shopping strips and centres.

Hobart, Canberra and Darwin have fewer studios, but all styles are generally available.

Regional and rural areas

In regional towns, mat classes at community halls and gyms, and clinical Pilates at local physiotherapy practices, are often the most accessible options. Online classes can fill the gaps between in-person sessions.

Online classes

Live-streamed and on-demand classes are a convenient supplement, especially once you know the basics. Look for programs taught by qualified instructors with clear cues and modifications. Beginners still benefit from at least a few in-person classes for hands-on feedback.

Health insurance

Whether you can claim depends on your policy and who provides the session. Clinical Pilates delivered by a physiotherapist may be claimable as physiotherapy under some extras cover. Rules for other Pilates classes have changed over time, so ask your insurer and provider before booking.

Guides in this section

• How to choose a Pilates studio and instructor