If you’re considering doing Pilates, you might be shocked at how expensive it can be. Take it from me, trying to find cheaper studios or lessons can feel nearly impossible. So, how much will you be up for?
Key Takeaways:
- A single reformer Pilates class in a studio setting can cost between $35 and $42. You also need to buy your own pair of Pilates socks.
- Memberships with bundled classes are the most economical, where the price per session is typically lower than a standalone class.
- You can find cheaper Pilates classes by looking out for introductory packages, becoming a member of instructorless studios, and attending classes during off-peak times.
The Cost of Reformer Pilates Classes In Australia
In Australia, the cost of a single reformer Pilates class can range between $35 and $42. However, weekly membership costs vary greatly. Under this arrangement, customers can attend a maximum of two reformer sessions per week. Under this arrangement, costs range from $48 to $98 for the premium establishments. The most economical memberships are those that come with ten or more classes per month, and the cost per class is more attractive ($192 to $355).
For comparison purposes, below are examples of reformer Pilates classes offered by several studios.
|
Single Class |
Weekly (2 classes) |
Monthly (8-1 classes) |
|
|
Perth Pilates Studio |
$39 |
$98 |
$299 |
|
KX Pilates |
- |
$60 |
$192 |
|
Muse Pilates |
$35 |
- |
$300 |
|
Best Body |
$42 |
$55 |
$330 |
|
Empower Pilates Studio |
$35 |
$70 |
$300 |
|
Breathe Pilates Studio |
- |
$48 |
$355 |
Why Pilates Classes Are So Expensive
Pilates classes offered in studio settings are expensive because they must consider several overheads and other costs. Of course, the costs depend on how often you go to Pilates each week. After all, they are businesses. However, knowing some of the reasons why Pilates costs so much will be important for your understanding.
Reformer machines are expensive
Your typical Pilates studio might have between 10 and 25 reformer machines, each costing between $2,000 and a staggering $7,000. Consider the accessories, sound system, and TV screens, and it all adds up.
Regular care and maintenance are necessary for high-quality equipment. Periodic inspections and replacements of springs, straps, and pulleys all incur continuing costs.
Instructor certifications
The training programmes for Pilates instructors are quite rigorous. For instance, the extensive training programme BASI Pilates offers covers everything from anatomy to teaching methods, which costs in the vicinity of $5,000.
Pilates instructors may also obtain certifications in fields such as prenatal Pilates or Pilates for rehabilitation, each of which calls for additional financial outlay. For instance, obtaining a certification in Pilates for rehabilitation could entail multiple training weekends and incur an extra $1,000. This is particularly true for independent Pilates studios.
Bigger classes are generally cheaper
In contrast to bigger exercise programmes, smaller Pilates studios frequently restrict reformer courses to 4 to 8 people to guarantee that each client gets individualised attention and can use the apparatus safely. Because of the extra value, the fee per person is typically higher.
Many clients prefer one-on-one or small group sessions for more individualised teaching. Depending on the instructor's experience and commitment, a private session could cost $75 to $150 per hour.
Specialised programmes
Pilates instructors frequently design individualised programmes for their clients, whether they address postural issues, injuries, or fitness goals. This level of customisation justifies a higher price by adding value.
Studio overheads for prime locations
A lot of Pilates studios are situated in upscale suburbs or cities with expensive rent. Although this may not apply to franchised studios, where class prices may remain the same across all locations, small and independent studios might charge more for the area.
10 Ways To Find Cheaper Pilates Classes
Let’s face it: studio Pilates classes are expensive. There is no reason why you should pay top price if you can avoid it. Here are some creative ways to find cheaper Pilates classes.
1. Opt for mat Pilates
Mat Pilates lessons are cheaper than reformer Pilates classes because they don’t use any reformer machines. Mat Pilates lessons in Australia generally cost $15 to $18 per session. Some venues will offer some sort of subscription or package where you can purchase 5 or 10 lessons at a slightly more economical price.
This is noticeably cheaper than reformer Pilates classes, but it has drawbacks. Mat Pilates has limited benefits compared to using a reformer.
2. Look for specials or introductory deals
A lot of studios and gyms entice new customers by offering classes or packages at discounted prices. Instead of paying for the regular $25 per class, you might pay only $22. However, these offers tend to apply only to new customers and are valid for a limited period of time.
Seasonal promotions are also popular. Studios and gyms may introduce specials during school holidays, New Year’s, Mother’s Day, and Christmas. So keep a lookout for those.
3. Donation-based or community classes
Look into your neighbourhood YMCA, community centre, or gym. They may be able to provide Pilates courses at a lesser price than specialised studios. These classes may be offered at reduced prices, such as $5 to $15 per session or included in a general membership.
You can pay what you can for donation-based classes offered by some studios or independent teachers. This might be a helpful approach to serving the community and doing Pilates on a budget but it may not be a long-term solution for you.
4. Subscriptions and memberships
A monthly membership at a Pilates studio will be more economical if you want to attend classes regularly and for a long time. And that’s the catch - you need to commit to make it worthwhile.
Membership packages frequently include unlimited classes for mat classes or bulk reformer classes at a discounted rate. For instance, unlimited mat classes can be included with a $26 monthly subscription. For reformer Pilates, 12 monthly sessions for around $50 to $6 are common.
Essentially, higher and more expensive memberships will result in more sessions that can come out cheaper than shorter memberships. You can also consider downloading Pilates apps in Australia which might have some economical pricing plans.
5. Off-peak pricing and group classes
This might be obvious but group classes are cheaper than private ones. Small group reformer sessions are available at many studios for less money than private instruction.
The busiest times for Pilates studios are typically early morning and late afternoon when people want to get their sessions before and after work. Depending on their clientele, some studios have fully booked classes until 10 am. As such, some studios offer reduced fees for lessons taken during the day when demand is lower. If you have a flexible schedule, this can be a cheaper choice but it might mean you are restricted to classes during off-peak times.
6. Independent instructors
Some independent instructors may be looking to generate some cash for themselves. They may offer reduced prices for lessons outside of conventional studio environments or even in their own homes. However, finding these may be difficult and won’t be a long-term solution.
7. Make use of college or university programmes
Many colleges and universities offer discounted fitness sessions to their staff, students, and, occasionally, the general public. Look for less expensive Pilates sessions at nearby establishments.
8. Employer programmes and health insurance
You might not even know it, but your private health insurance provider might offer discounted Pilates classes. Or maybe you can find a new health insurance provider with an introductory offer or discounts at certain Pilates studios.
Some workplaces have wellness initiatives. Although yoga is a common inclusion, Pilates may not be - but you might be lucky. Otherwise, some businesses offer cash assistance to staff members participating in health-promoting activities.
9. Do it at home
While buying a good Pilates reformer machine is a high upfront investment, it will pay itself over time since studio classes can be expensive in the long run. If this option is for you, it will be important to do a cost-benefit analysis, noting numerous advantages to being in a studio environment. Here are a few tips to do Pilates at home.
10. Classes with no instructor
Studios like Pronto Pilates cut costs for customers by offering sessions in which they can follow a video screen rather than an instructor. While not having an instructor has notable drawbacks, such as not having someone to correct poor form or provide motivation, individual classes can cost as low as $5.
The downside is that these classes are often fully booked out in advance, so securing a spot regularly isn’t guaranteed due to their popularity.
