Is Pilates Suitable for Men?

Victoria Frances Jackson
Sep 21
2 min read

VFJ Pilates | Questions Answered

Pilates was created by a man, used by male athletes, and is absolutely suitable for men of all ages and abilities.

Pilates is often seen as something soft, stretchy, or feminine, but that perception could not be further from the truth. It is a system that builds strength, mobility, control, and resilience, and it is just as relevant to men as it is to women.

Where It All Began

Despite its popularity among women, Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates, a German physical trainer who originally used the method to help injured soldiers and athletes rebuild strength and mobility. He believed that modern life weakened the body and created imbalances, and his system, which he called Contrology, was designed to restore strength, posture, and resilience.

His method focused heavily on spinal alignment, breathing, and core control, principles that remain central to Pilates today. It was first adopted by men recovering from injury and athletes looking to improve their performance, and it continues to serve those same goals over a century later.

Why Men Can Benefit Too

The idea that it is a gentle, stretchy workout just for women is outdated and misleading.

Pilates focuses on core strength, stability, posture, mobility, and control. These benefits apply equally to men and women, and many male athletes and celebrities credit Pilates for keeping them strong, balanced, and injury-free.

Well-Known Men Who Practise Pilates

Familiar Names Who Practise Pilates:

David Beckham incorporated Pilates into his training to improve core strength and stay match-fit.
Andy Murray uses Pilates to manage his back and improve mobility.
Sylvester Stallone relies on Pilates to support mobility and recovery as he ages.
Hugh Grant turned to Pilates to help with back pain and improve posture.

Pilates for Real Life

Pilates is not just something to admire from afar, it is designed to support how you move, feel, and function as a whole. For men, that might mean lifting heavy things at work, spending long hours at a desk, recovering from sports injuries, managing lower back pain, or simply wanting to stay strong and mobile as you age. Pilates can help build control and resilience across all of these situations.

Classes can be tailored for different levels, and many of the exercises challenge control and endurance, traits anyone can benefit from.

Pilates is not about who it is for, it is about what it gives you.

Wishing you ease on your Pilates journey,

Victoria xx

P.S. If you have ever felt unsure about joining a class as a man, just know you will be welcome, and you will not be the only one who is surprised by how challenging it can be!