5 Pilates studios in Toronto worth checking out
Pilates studios in Toronto seem to be multiplying faster than dispensaries, and honestly, I'm not complaining. But it can feel overwhelming when determining which one to check out first.
Personally, I've always been a fan of being horizontal, so discovering that there's an entire workout where you spend a decent amount of time on your back or stomach is my kind of fitness.
I've been using the ClassPass app to sample different studios like flavours of ice cream at Baskin-Robbins. A $59 monthly plan gets you 24 credits, making it a much more affordable option than paying the usual $30 - $35 drop-in fee at each individual studio. Plus, it's a fun excuse to check out some of Toronto's prettiest spaces.
If you're new to the mindful movement trend or you're a pro looking for a new place to stretch and strengthen, there have been a number of Pilates studios that opened up in Toronto within the last year. Here are five worth checking out.
STOTT Pilates Studio
The major global brand opened a flagship studio and academy in Yorkville back in January. The studio offers both mat and Reformer classes. Located 10 floors above the former Hudson's Bay Centre at Bloor and Yonge, it's easily one of the only studios in Toronto with near-panoramic views of the city. Despite its sprawling space, you don't have to join a big class; private and small-group training sessions are also available if that's more your speed.
Location: 2 Bloor St. E.
Solis Movement
The brand's newest Riverside location spans an impressive 8,500 square feet with two dedicated Pilates rooms. One studio is equipped with 22 Reformer machines, while the other is an infrared-heated room designed for mat Pilates, so you can choose your preferred way to shake through class.
I recommend the Heated Pilates Fusion class, which is a 45-minute high-intensity, low-impact mat workout (usually with weights) in a room heated to 40 degrees C.
Location: 10 Lawrence St.
Club Pilates
This US-born brand is sort of like the F45 of Pilates, with studios popping up in almost every corner of the city, including the Junction. The studio offers traditional Reformer and mat classes, but if you're craving something a little more intense, you can also try Cardio Sculpt or Circuit classes for a more energetic workout to burn more calories. Despite the faster-paced options, the studio still feels approachable, with instructors known for being helpful and patient, especially with newcomers.
Location: 2720 Dundas St. W.
Galeria Pilates + Coffee
We love a hybrid business model in Toronto, and at this studio, you can get your sweat on and caffeine fix under one roof. The Leslieville location just celebrated its one-year anniversary this week, and when you step inside, it's easy to see why the community loves it. Inside, every room feels genuinely peaceful and relaxing like a spa.
Beginner classes I'd recommend are Reformer Signature, Reformer Sculpt, or Hot Pilates Sculpt. Just don't forget to bring a water bottle.
Location: 998 Queen St. E.
BARLATËS
Tucked away in the Junction, this small studio is a bit of a hidden gem with some of the most supportive instructors in the city, in my humble opinion. Unlike some Toronto studios that lean into all the bells and whistles for the sake of being "Insta-worthy," BARLATËS keeps things simple, warm, and inviting, focusing on mat Pilates and barre classes that actually feel good to do.
If you're looking to make new friends, check out their Pilates & Prosecco class on the last Friday of every month, where you can sip some bubbly and mingle with the crew.
Location: 3328 Dundas St. W.
I'm always on the hunt to explore new Pilates studios, so if you have a favourite, drop it in the comments below.
BARLATËS
