Women on the Wirral are embracing the latest trend in health and wellness, in an endeavour to seek alternative ways to exercise.
Pilates focuses on strength, posture, and breathing techniques through a variety of exercises to connect the mind with the body.
With an emphasis on moving well rather than moving hard, Pilates has carved a name for itself on the Wirral, with at least 20 Pilates studios opening within the last five years.
NOMAD, a strength and wellness studio in Hoylake, opened its doors in early 2026 to provide the community with HIIT yoga, strength training, pilates, and meditation all under one roof.
Jennifer Hackett, founder of NOMAD, said, “Spaces focused on wellness are becoming increasingly important for communities like the Wirral because people are recognising that health goes far beyond traditional exercise.”
While traditional gyms often emphasise a focus on individualistic, physical results, Pilates studios foster a supportive environment that promotes collective wellbeing, resulting in predominantly female attendance.
When asked what it is like attending pilates classes as a woman, Sophie Myers, a reformer Pilates instructor in training, said it’s “AMAZING! I love the way it makes me feel during class; it never feels competitive, whereas a standard gym usually does. I think it is more enjoyable going to a class in general, as there’s always help, which makes it feel less daunting.”
She continued: “I personally think it is more female-dominated, for many reasons. One being the social aspect of it and the changes in our day-to-day lifestyle, which I personally don’t think would appeal to males as much. Additionally, I don’t feel as though Pilates gives a ‘macho’ ‘ego’ vibe, whereas weight training sometimes can. It is less about strength and more to do with resistance with a holistic approach. Meaning it’s the lifestyle change that appeals to females.”
Although there is often a connection made between Pilates and femininity, Debroah Paterson, founder of Pilates by Physio, said “Pilates equally benefits men and women. And again, I think it’s maybe that comfort side where, you know, men might feel more comfortable being in gyms generally because there’s more men there”.
With classes accommodating up to 15 people, women gain genuine connections through these shared physical experiences.
Jennifer said: “People train alongside each other rather than competing with each other. Members encourage one another, celebrate progress together and often grab a coffee together after classes. That sense of connection is incredibly powerful because fitness isn’t just about physical results; it’s about feeling part of something.”
Debroah added: “I feel like Pilates really gives that sense of community because quite often, people are going to the same class all the time and they get to meet friends.”
Despite Pilates offering a holistic approach to wellness, the exercise has significantly gained traction for its visually captivating qualities suitable for sharing on social media platforms like Instagram.
Holly Cooper, another avid Pilates attendee, said: “I feel like it was first brought about for the aesthetics of Instagram, not really for the purpose of the exercise, more of just the looks of it, but now I think people have realised it’s so important for you, and it’s really taking a turn”
Jennifer Hackett built on this, saying: “I also think social media has had a massive impact on Pilates; it’s very ‘Instagrammable’, and people love that. It’s bringing a younger crowd into wellness spaces, so that can only be a good thing. I’m so proud when I see young girls in the gym absolutely smashing their workouts.“
Although aesthetics may have introduced some folks to the exercise, Pilates has encouraged many women to forget about the physical aesthetics of working out and instead work out to increase longevity, hormonal health, recovery and mental wellbeing.
“Strength and wellness are incredibly important for women at every stage of life. Strength training supports bone density, muscle mass and metabolic health. Ideally 3 times a week, Regular strength exercise can significantly reduce the risk of conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Beyond physical health, strength training and mindful movement can also improve confidence, stress resilience and mental wellbeing.
“When women feel physically strong, it often translates into feeling stronger in many other areas of life”.
Feature image: “Reformer Pilates Photography – Feet In Straps Exercise” by runwaypilates is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
