Pilates for Men: Why It Works, What to Wear, and How to Start
Pilates was invented by a man who trained boxers and soldiers. Here is why more men are booking reformer classes — and how not to feel lost in your first one.
Theo Marsh7 min read
In This Story
In This Story
Key Takeaways
- Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates and has long been used by male athletes.
- It builds mobility, core control, and single-leg strength that complement lifting and running.
- Wear lined or compression shorts or tapered joggers, a fitted top, and grip socks.
- Start with a beginner reformer class and lighter springs.
Walk into many reformer studios and the men are outnumbered. That is a recent cultural accident, not a feature of the method. Joseph Pilates developed his system in the early 20th century and worked with boxers, dancers, and injured soldiers. Today, plenty of athletes use Pilates to build the control, mobility, and core strength that lifting and running alone do not always train.
Fast answer
Fitted shorts or joggers, a close tee, grip socks
Book a beginner or fundamentals class and tell the instructor it's your first time. Expect it to be harder than it looks.
Why men benefit
- Mobility: many lifters and desk workers are tight through the hips, hamstrings, and upper back.
- Core control: Pilates trains the deep stabilisers that brace heavy lifts and protect the lower back.
- Single-leg strength: reformer footwork and lunges expose left-right imbalances.
- Recovery-friendly: low impact, so it fits between heavy training days.
Reformer or mat?
Many men find reformer easier to start with: springs give feedback, and it feels more like strength training. Mat Pilates is harder than expected because you control your own bodyweight without assistance. Compare in reformer vs mat Pilates. If you want intensity, try Lagree.
What men should wear to Pilates
| Compare | Wear | Skip |
|---|---|---|
| Bottoms | Lined shorts, compression shorts under shorts, or tapered joggers | Loose, short running shorts without a liner |
| Top | Fitted tee or tank | Baggy tees that ride up in inversions |
| Feet | Grip socks | Shoes or regular socks |
| Extras | Water, small towel | Watch with a bulky band, belt buckles |
Swipe sideways to see all columns.
For yoga-style bottoms built for men, see best yoga pants for men. For grip socks, read how to choose grip socks.
First-class tips
- Book a beginner or intro class, not an advanced flow.
- Arrive 10 minutes early so the instructor can show you the springs and straps.
- Use lighter springs than you think; control matters more than load.
- Breathe out on effort and move slowly — rushing is the most common beginner mistake.
- Expect to shake in small ranges. Your stabilisers are working.
Frequently Asked
Is Pilates good for men?
Yes. Pilates improves mobility, core control, and single-leg strength, which complement lifting, running, and team sports. It was developed by Joseph Pilates and used by boxers and soldiers.
What should men wear to Pilates?
Lined shorts or compression shorts under shorts, or tapered joggers, plus a fitted tee and grip socks. Avoid loose, short shorts without a liner, since you will often have your legs in the air.
Is reformer or mat Pilates better for men?
Many men find reformer easier to start because the springs provide feedback and resistance. Mat Pilates is a strong complement once you understand the basics.
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