Hot Pilates takes the fundamentals of Pilates and cranks up the heat—literally. Practiced in infrared-heated studios, this workout pushes your body to new limits, enhancing flexibility, torching calories, and sharpening mental focus. It’s the perfect blend of challenge and mindfulness, offering more than just toned muscles. As it rises in popularity across social media and boutique fitness studios, Hot Pilates promises a workout that leaves you feeling both empowered and rejuvenated. Curious to know why everyone’s talking about it? Keep reading—you might just find your new fitness obsession.
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Pilates has long been a popular fitness trend, with celebrities and influencers embracing it as their workout of choice. For many, such as Lori Harvey at the 2022 Met Gala, Pilates was credited for achieving toned physiques. Its popularity has endured, but recently, a new variation—hot Pilates—has started gaining attention on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Rather than replacing traditional Pilates, hot Pilates offers a more intense, heated experience that appeals to those seeking an upgrade to their fitness routine.
What Is Hot Pilates?
Hot Pilates is a high-intensity yet low-impact workout performed in an infrared-heated room, typically set between 95 to 100°F. According to Eli Kaylin, founder of the Fuze House studio, the workout combines traditional Pilates movements with contemporary mat exercises and often includes props like light weights, resistance bands, and Pilates rings. The heat adds an extra layer of challenge, enhancing the workout’s benefits.
Benefits of Hot Pilates
In addition to the standard Pilates advantages—such as increased flexibility, improved joint mobility, and strengthened core muscles—hot Pilates offers specific benefits from the infrared heat. It boosts circulation, loosens muscles to improve flexibility, and may help prevent injury. Heat also elevates metabolism, promoting more calorie burn compared to non-heated workouts. Dr. Alexis Colvin from Mount Sinai highlights mental health benefits, noting that the combination of movement and heat can reduce stress and promote well-being.
Hot Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates
One key difference between hot Pilates and reformer Pilates lies in the equipment. While reformer Pilates relies on specialized machines with springs and straps for resistance, hot Pilates focuses on bodyweight exercises on a mat. Kaylin explains that hot Pilates encourages mindful movement and offers more creative freedom, as participants aren’t confined to machines. It also serves as a solid introduction to Pilates for beginners, emphasizing proper form and breathing techniques.
Cautions and Precautions
Despite its benefits, hot Pilates may not suit everyone. Dr. Colvin advises individuals with conditions such as asthma, heart disease, low blood pressure, or those who are pregnant to consult a doctor before participating. The high temperatures can lead to dehydration or dizziness, so staying hydrated is crucial. She also recommends arriving early to get accustomed to the heat and suggests wearing moisture-wicking clothing for comfort.
What to Expect in a Class
Participants can expect a 50-minute session with controlled, slow movements set to upbeat music. The heat provides a detoxifying effect, and post-class soreness, especially in the abs, is common. Taking breaks when needed and stepping out of the room if feeling lightheaded is encouraged.
If you’re seeking a fresh challenge or simply want to enhance your Pilates routine, hot Pilates could be the perfect next step. With no competitive pressure to outperform others, it allows individuals to move at their own pace and enjoy a fulfilling fitness experience.
EUROPEAN PERSPECTIVE
Hot Pilates According to Doctissimo
Hot Pilates, a workout that combines traditional Pilates exercises with heat, is experiencing a surge in popularity. Performed in rooms heated to 32-35°C with higher-than-normal humidity, the heat is said to promote detoxification and enhance calorie burn. On TikTok, the hashtag “#heatedpilates” has over eight million views, with users showcasing workouts in infrared-heated studios and highlighting the routine’s body-sculpting benefits.
Originally developed in 2009 by athlete Gabriella Walters, Hot Pilates has recently gained renewed attention, especially on social media. Fitness experts explain that the appeal lies in the added challenge and novelty the heat provides. Abigail McLachlan, a Pilates instructor in London, notes that people are drawn to classes that offer unique experiences they can’t replicate at home.
According to instructors, Hot Pilates focuses heavily on building strength, endurance, and mental resilience. The heat helps participants become more mindful of their bodies, relaxes muscles, and eases movement, making the workout ideal for those with muscle stiffness.
While it’s believed that working out in a heated environment increases calorie burn by forcing the body to regulate its temperature, there is limited scientific evidence to confirm these claims. Research comparing hot and neutral-temperature yoga found similar results for both.
Experts recommend practicing Hot Pilates one to three times per week, with sessions lasting around 20 minutes. However, it’s not suitable for everyone—especially those with heart conditions.
