Pilates not Perfection

Pilates – Why Has It Become an Industry Obsessed with Body Image?

I've been teaching Pilates for over 20 years, and in that time, I’ve watched it evolve—from a niche practice to a global sensation. Everyone seems to be doing it now: from the Kansas City Chiefs and Cristiano Ronaldo to Ed Sheeran. And honestly, I’m not surprised. Once you understand what Pilates truly does for the mind and body, it’s hard not to fall in love with it.

But here's what does surprise me—and more than that, it concerns me.

Somewhere along the way, Pilates became something else. Social media has taken hold of this practice and reshaped it into a world of “perfect lines,” sculpted bodies, matching activewear, and high-end gear—and that image can be incredibly off-putting for so many people. Especially in a wellness industry already obsessed with unrealistic body ideals, the image of Pilates now being portrayed as this glossy, flawless lifestyle can be demotivating for so many.

Let’s get something straight: Pilates was never meant to be about physical perfection.

At its core, Pilates is about control, breath, focus, and fluid movement. It’s about improving strength, mobility, and balance—not about looking like a ballet dancer in leggings. It’s a practice that meets you where you are, no matter your shape, age, or ability. And yet, the way it’s being presented online often tells a different story—one that's intimidating, exclusive, and filtered to within an inch of its life.

And that’s such a shame.

Because honestly? I don’t fit the “typical” mould of the perfectly looking Pilates instructor you may come across online. However, I am strong, practical and movement-focused, because of my weekly Pilates routines, just like Joseph Pilates originally intended it to be.

Strong, practical, movement focused.

I teach from a place of function and resilience—and it has helped me build the kind of strength that lets me carry a screaming toddler and 3 bags of shopping all at once. I teach Pilates to help you move with ease—whether it's getting up from the floor without assistance or playing with your kids, grandkids, or pets without feeling sore all over. I've found it especially valuable as my energetic 3-year-old grows—and his activities get more demanding too!

It’s not about what you’re wearing. It’s not about the latest gadget, trend, or mat colour. You don’t need fancy props or a picture-perfect setup. What you need is the willingness to move, the discipline to show up, and the commitment to keep going!

The current social media image of Pilates doesn’t reflect the power of the practice. It doesn’t show the person discovering they’re stronger than they thought. It doesn’t capture the joy of someone regaining balance, or the confidence of someone who thought they’d “never be flexible.”

It doesn’t highlight the real, raw, incredible breakthroughs happening every day in real life/studios with real people.

PILATES ISN’T ABOUT PERFECTION.

It’s about possibility.

It’s about finding strength, stability, and flexibility in a way that supports your life—not tries to mould you into someone else’s version of “fit.”

So if you’re feeling like Pilates isn’t for you because your form isn’t "Insta-worthy", let me say this:

PILATES IS FOR EVERYONE.

NO PERFECTION REQUIRED and NONE is EXPECTED!

My form isn't perfect—and it doesn’t have to be. Neither does yours. So don’t let that hold you back. Don’t give up on starting, and don’t stop moving.

Stay consistent, and I promise—you’ll see powerful changes beyond the physical. So if the polished, picture-perfect version of Pilates doesn’t speak to you, I hope this article did. And I hope it inspires you to make Pilates part of your journey.

Anna Maria x