Pilates Isn’t for Men! …Or Is It?
Hi, I’m Debbie, and I run Pilates, Biomechanics, Stretch and Wellbeing classes here in Bridgwater. And yes — I hear it all the time.
“Pilates isn’t really for men, is it?” “Pilates is really for women isn’t it?”
If you’ve ever thought Pilates looks like something better suited to women, not men, you’re definitely not alone. For years, Pilates has been promoted as a gentle, ‘long and lean’ workout, usually aimed at women. But sportsmen such as footballers, tennis players, golfers, all do it. Why? Because that stereotype couldn’t be further from the truth.
Here’s the twist: Pilates was created by a man, for men.
Joseph Pilates developed his method to train soldiers, boxers and elite athletes. It was designed to build strength, resilience and control — not just flexibility. If you’re lifting weights, playing golf, running, cycling or just want to move without stiffness and aches, Pilates could be exactly what your body’s been missing.
The Strength You Don’t See in the Mirror
Some men just want to stay functional and independent as they age. Others I meet are great at training the muscles they can see — chest, arms, shoulders and legs. Pilates focuses on something different: what we call the “powerhouse.”
This is the deep core, hips and lower back muscles that support every single movement you make. When these muscles are working properly:
Pilates isn’t about endless sit-ups. It’s about teaching your body to work as one strong, connected unit — which is where real, functionable, usable strength comes from.
“I’m Too Stiff for Pilates”
This is probably the number one thing men say to me before they start.
And honestly? If you’re stiff, that’s a reason to do Pilates — not a reason to avoid it.
Pilates builds strength and flexibility at the same time. We use controlled movements where muscles lengthen while working, which helps improve mobility without forcing stretches or risking injury.
The goal isn’t just touching your toes. It’s being strong and confident in your movement, whether you’re picking something up, getting out of the car or heading out for a long walk or workout.
Why My Pilates Classes in Bridgwater Are Different
I’ve been teaching Pilates for many years, and I’m proud that so many of my clients — men included — have been coming to my classes long-term.
Why?
Because I keep it:
I explain how your body works and help you understand why certain movements make a difference. Whether you’re sporty, recovering from injury, or haven’t exercised in years, I’ll meet you where you are.
Pilates for Men in Bridgwater (and Beyond)
You don’t need to be super fit, have fancy kit, any experience or perfect flexibility. You just need to turn up and give it a go.
Many of my male clients start Pilates thinking they’ll “try it for a few weeks”… and end up staying for years. They stop seeing it as just a class and start using it as the foundation for everything else they do.
So if you’re in Bridgwater or the surrounding area and curious about Pilates — especially if you think it’s not for you — that’s probably the perfect time to start.
Let’s roll out the mats.
— Debbie
