Top 10 places to do Pilates in Detroit, according to locals

Whether you prefer classic, mat-based classes or more contemporary sessions on a reformer, Detroit has a Pilates studio you’ll love.

MICHIGAN—Does the beginning of the new year have you wanting to get in shape? Maybe you’re simply looking to shake up your current fitness routine. Either way, exploring one of Detroit’s many Pilates studios is a great place to start. We’ve rounded up the best of the best locally owned Pilates spots and highlighted why Detroit residents love each one so you can decide which is the perfect fit for you. 

From traditional Pilates classes to those that incorporate cardio, equipment, or infrared heat, these studios offer something for everyone. Beloved by locals and drop-in visitors alike, here are the Motor City’s best places to do Pilates. 

Pilates Detroit 

3281 Hilton Road, Ferndale

Photo courtesy of Pilates Detroit via Facebook

Pilates Detroit is a boutique reformer studio that’s fully female-led, from owner Allison Nakisher to the three senior instructors on staff. Named Best of Detroit by Hour Detroit in 2023, the Ferndale studio offers group classes and private sessions.  

If you’re new to reformer Pilates, which utilizes a piece of heavy equipment with a padded platform known as a carriage, it’s suggested that you start with a private session or sign up for the New Kids on the Pilates Block group class. For reformer pros who want to try something new, check out the Jumpboard Reformer class, which incorporates cardio moves designed to boost your heart rate and strengthen your core. 

Pilates Detroit also makes its own straps locally, which you can purchase here prior to class. The knowledge and expertise of the trainers is highlighted in tons of online reviews as one of the things that makes Pilates Detroit a local favorite. 

Review: “Pilates Detroit is honestly the BEST. A girlfriend and I started with Duet Sessions with Allison in April and instantly fell in love. Allison is beyond thorough and makes it a very safe space to learn and grow.” 

Hot Bones Detroit

2895 E. Grand Blvd., Detroit 

Hot Bones Detroit is a new studio, having opened in December 2023, but it’s already making waves among the Detroit Pilates community as a fun, inclusive place to practice. Part hot yoga and Pilates studio, part bone broth bar, Hot Bones is a unique concept and first-of-its-kind space in Detroit.

The female-founded studio offers two Pilates classes, both of which take place in an infrared-heated studio. HIIT Pilates combines high-intensity interval strength training and traditional mat Pilates, while Sculpt Pilates features repetitive, low-impact sequences designed to build muscular endurance and strength. 

After class, head to the bone broth bar (scheduled to open in February) and choose from a nourishing bowl of beef, chicken, or vegan broth. 

Review: “I am so grateful that a space like Hot Bones exists in Detroit. I’m newer to yoga and Pilates, but every instructor has made me feel welcome and capable. I love the variety of classes they have and their community focus. All of the staff have such great energy — this is a place for everyone!” 

Warehouse Pilates 

133 W. Main St., Northville; and 22301 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon

Photo courtesy of Warehouse Pilates via Facebook

Unlike classical studios, Warehouse Pilates teaches a contemporary, athletic form of Pilates that incorporates Total Resistance Exercises (TRX), a BOSU ball, and weights with high-intensity, low-impact moves.

In total, the female-founded, Best of Detroit 2023 finalist offers six Pilates reformer classes. From The Beginning (for beginners) to 20/20/20, which incorporates three different pieces of equipment and some cardio, there’s something for all skill levels.  

A great atmosphere and staff make Warehouse Pilates a top pick for Metro Detroiters. 

Review: “The absolute best place I’ve ever been to for Pilates!! The owner is very kind and knowledgeable. I would recommend this place for anyone looking for a great atmosphere to get in a fun workout.”

Hustle Flow Lab

10829 East Jefferson Ave., Detroit

Hustle Flow Lab isn’t exclusively a Pilates studio—it’s a personal training and small-group gym that offers strength training, HIIT, yoga, and Pilates classes. With a focus on community building and inclusivity, Hustle Flow Lab creates a safe space for all fitness lovers to break a sweat. The Hot Girl Pilates class is taught by Coach Hailey, a Michigan State University kinesiology alumna and former Division 1 college athlete.

Not sure if Hustle Flow Lab is the right fit for you? Book a free 30-minute consultation, during which you can explore the space and receive personalized answers to any questions you might have. 

Review: “Lindsay and her staff are THE BEST FITNESS COMMUNITY THAT DETROIT HAS!!! HFL is inclusive, empowering, fun, joyful, loud and diverse! I can’t say enough good things about this place!!! Stop in for a class, and you won’t regret it!” 

Sculpted by Bee

1162 Buckingham Road, Grosse Pointe Park

For a more intimate Pilates experience, check out Sculpted by Bee. The cozy studio space is thoughtfully designed—as noted by many online reviewers—and was a Best of Detroit 2023 finalist. Owner and instructor Rebecca VanBrienen has been teaching Pilates for more than 20 years with a lengthy list of certifications and credentials. 

Choose from the Classic Sculpt class or mix things up and book a Suspension session. Private classes are also available, and the studio can be booked for private group events—with optional mimosas afterward. 

Review: “The studio aesthetics, music and vibe of the studio are just a bonus to Bee’s experience as a trainer. She prepares you for the workout, explains everything thoroughly and has helped me remain vibrant and strong for other aspects of life!”

Innerverse Studios 

43334 7 Mile Road, Suite 600, Northville

Innerverse Studios is more than a Pilates studio—it’s a wellness social club that takes a modern approach to movement. It was founded by a Michigan native and former college athlete who is passionate about holistic well-being. 

At Innerverse Studios, there are full-body Pilates classes as well as more targeted options like Buns + Guns or Obliques + Cheeks. In addition to challenging classes, Innerverse Studios has a few other noteworthy amenities including the Cold Plunge experience, a 15-minute soak in 39-degree water that “promotes physical vitality, mental clarity, and overall well-being.”

Review: “I joined this studio over the summer and have enjoyed every class. I had limited experience in Pilates prior to coming, and the instructors have been encouraging, educational and kind. Erica is a favorite for me as she will push you every time and help perfect your form.”

go-toPILATES

Royal Oak

In an effort to lose weight and take control of her health, Karen Haque joined a gym and started taking Pilates classes. After experiencing firsthand the positive impact Pilates can have on the body, Karen quit her day job and opened go-toPILATES, which focuses on classic Pilates instruction. Most of the classes are mat-based, but the TRIO class option utilizes equipment like a Pilates chair and a barrel.

Can’t make it to the studio? Don’t worry, go-toPILATES also offers virtual classes. Whether you opt for an in-person or online session, rest assured that the instruction will be top-notch. Online reviewers can’t say enough positive things about Karen, including her attention to detail and focus on form.

Review: “Karen, the owner and instructor at go-toPILATES, is a thorough, knowledgeable and caring teacher. Also fun and challenging! I have taken mat classes, reformer classes and classes in Zoom — all are excellent!” 

The Pilates Method

266 Elm St., Birmingham

Photo courtesy of The Pilates Method via Facebook

The Pilates Method is another solid option for those looking for a classical Pilates experience. This studio specializes in ​​private, duet, and semi-private classes, so you know you’ll be getting personalized attention from the mostly female team. Speaking of the instructors, their expertise and thoroughness are among the top reasons locals keep coming back to The Pilates Method. The beautifully designed space and state-of-the-art equipment are major pluses too. 

Review: “I didn’t really know what to expect when I started Pilates, but Cheryl at The Pilates Method has exceeded all expectations. Cheryl is truly a master of her craft. I cannot say enough amazing things about her or The Pilates Method. If you’re considering visiting the studio, do! You won’t regret it.”

Midtown Yoga 

55 W. Canfield St., #1, Detroit

Midtown Yoga is Detroit’s original hot yoga studio, but it offers much more than that. The wellness center’s Hot Pilates classes are popular and suitable for all skill levels. In addition to the aesthetic appeal of the space, many reviewers mention the welcoming, judgment-free environment, and friendly instructors as highlights. 

Review: “This studio is fantastic. Great instructors, owner is attentive and dedicated to running a business as it should be done. Great customer service. Detroit is lucky to have this place of practice. Would give 10 stars if I could.”

Rock Your Body Pilates

45435 Market St., Shelby Township

If you’re looking for a Pilates class with a twist, consider adding Rock Your Body Pilates to your workout routine. Rock Your Body was born out of owner Ashley Bazzetta’s desire for a Pilates class that also had a cardio component. By using a Megaformer M3 Pilates machine, Rock Your Body Pilates achieves exactly that. 

The establishment promises a “fun, memorable, and challenging” workout, and based on the online reviews, it delivers. Customers have described the classes as “unique” and “dynamic and fun,” stating “you can’t get this kind of workout anywhere else.”

Review: “RYB is the best Pilates class! I have gained so much strength in my core! All of the instructors are so great and really help guide you through the class no matter your fitness level. Definitely my favorite work out by far!”