Boutique fitness continues its exciting evolution in 2026, blending performance with mindful movement, community, and innovation. From Pilates and yoga revolutions to strength training powerhouses, these studios are shaping where the industry is headed next.  

According to Mariana Tek’s latest industry report, class attendance has climbed close to pre-COVID levels and is projected to surpass 2019 numbers, while revenue continues to rise year-over-year with average class prices increasing roughly 6%. Pilates alone now represents over 43% of primary studio modalities, signaling sustained demand for low-impact, high-intensity movement experiences. 

At the forefront of this growth and evolution are some standout brands that build unique experiences for their customers. These eight trendsetters are not just participating in the hottest trends — they’re defining them! 

The Movers and Shakers Redefining Boutique Fitness

1. CARVE — Modern Pilates with power and mindful precision 

CARVE has quickly become one of the most talked about modern Pilates concepts, blending strength, endurance, balance, flexibility and low-impact conditioning into a high-performance class format. Classes use dynamic reformer-inspired movements with intentional pacing and music-driven energy, creating a transformative experience for both beginners and seasoned movers alike. CARVE’s intimate class sizes and emphasis on technique ensure personal attention, helping practitioners move better in daily life, not just during workouts. Plus, the brand has been recognized as a Best Pilates Studio in local wellness awards, proof that its community is passionate and growing.  

Why to watch:  

  • Innovative hybrid movement style that appeals to broader fitness audiences.  
  • A growing presence and strong community buzz that hints at broader expansion potential. 

2. Reforming Pilates — Boutique classical Pilates with cult following 

Reforming Pilates operates as one of the most wait-listed boutique Pilates studios in South Florida, offering both daily group and private classes rooted in classical Pilates principles. With multiple locations opening from Miami Beach to Boca Raton and now in New York, this brand focuses on deep, form-centered Pilates training that appeals to both novices and dedicated Pilates lovers.  

Why to watch: 

  • Rapid expansion into major metro areas suggests strong demand for upmarket, classical training. 
  • Its boutique roots and small class sizes deliver personalized attention — a differentiator in a crowded market. 

3. CorePower Yoga — A fitness powerhouse evolving in 2026 

CorePower Yoga continues to be a dominant force in hybrid fitness. With over 220+ locations nationwide, CorePower blends traditional yoga with strength, sculpt, and cardio elements in classes like Yoga Sculpt and CorePower StrengthX.  

Why to watch: 

  • Its scale (one of the larger yoga/fitness studio networks in the U.S.) gives it unmatched reach. 
  • Continual evolution of class formats keeps long-time members engaged while attracting new audiences. 

4. Best Body Pilates — Community favorites with word-of-mouth momentum 

Though smaller and not part of a major franchise, Best Body Pilates is a studio with consistently strong reviews from real customers: instructors are described as knowledgeable and welcoming, classes are fun yet challenging, and members report noticeable improvements in strength and flexibility.  

Why to watch: 

  • Strong community reputation and highly positive client feedback. 
  • Focus on quality instruction and supportive environment — pillars of long-term boutique success. 

5. STRONG Pilates — Redefining Pilates for the modern athlete 

STRONG Pilates has quickly become a major disruptor in the Pilates world. Founded by ex-F45 owners, this brand combines cardio and resistance training using hybrid machines like the Rowformer and Bikeformer. It has grown into a global fitness empire worth tens of millions, with over 100 studios across Australia and international expansion underway — including into the U.S., UK and Asia. Its approach has significantly grown male participation and broadened what “Pilates” can mean.  

Why to watch: 

  • Rapid global growth and franchise potential. 
  • Hybrid workouts that attract beyond traditional Pilates audiences (think strength + cardio + Pilates crossover). 

6. CorePlus Studios — Pilates, yoga, and functional movement — now international 

CorePlus has been turning heads in 2025 and 2026 with its strategic expansion from Australia into the U.S. wellness market. Known for combining reformer Pilates, mat Pilates, yoga and heated classes under one roof, the brand offers 11 unique class styles that appeal to a wide spectrum of fitness goals. With a strong emphasis on community, inclusive movement, and state-of-the-art studio design, CorePlus now operates in 30+ locations globally including its first U.S. studio in Arizona.  

Why to watch: 

  • International growth backed by strategic tech and partnership platforms. 
  • Broad class variety that bridges yoga, Pilates, strength, and wellness — perfect for today’s holistic fitness consumers. 

7. The Yard Gym — Strength, conditioning, and community-driven training — scaling with intention

Built around performance-based training, athletic conditioning, and coach-led small group sessions, The Yard Gym blends functional strength, cardio conditioning, and skill work into programming that feels both gritty and elevated.

What sets The Yard apart is its ability to deliver serious training in a highly curated, community-first environment. The brand leans into structured programming cycles, measurable progress, and expert coaching — creating an experience that attracts both seasoned athletes and everyday members looking for results beyond a typical HIIT class.

Rather than expanding rapidly for the sake of footprint, The Yard Gym has focused on disciplined growth, operational excellence, and consistent brand identity. With studios gaining momentum across key markets, strong member retention, and a reputation for results-driven programming, the brand is proving that strength-focused boutique fitness continues to have powerful staying power.

Why to watch: 

  • Strategic, quality-over-quantity expansion that protects the integrity of the training experience.
  • High-retention, coach-led programming built around measurable progress — tapping into the growing demand for strength and performance-based fitness.

8. JETSET Pilates — Modern Reformer Pilates — scaling the luxury sweat experience

JETSET Pilates has quickly become one of the fastest-growing names in the modern Pilates movement. Founded in Miami, the brand delivers a high-intensity, music-driven reformer workout inside a sleek, nightclub-meets-wellness studio environment. Low lighting, curated playlists, and precision-programmed sequences create an experience that feels equal parts luxury and athletic performance.

JETSET’s model is intentionally streamlined: one signature 50-minute reformer class, expertly programmed for progressive overload and consistency across locations. This focus allows the brand to scale without diluting quality — members know exactly what to expect, whether they’re in Florida, Texas, California, or beyond.

With rapid franchise expansion, strong unit economics, and a highly recognizable aesthetic, JETSET is riding the continued demand for reformer Pilates while elevating it into a premium, aspirational category. The brand’s growth signals that consumers aren’t just looking for Pilates — they’re seeking a fully immersive fitness experience.

Why to watch: 

  • Rapid national expansion fueled by a refined, repeatable franchise model.
  • A single-format, high-intensity reformer concept that blends luxury branding with performance-driven programming — meeting demand for elevated, results-focused Pilates.

Across the boutique fitness landscape, clear patterns are shaping consumer demand in 2026: 

  • Pilates and reformer-based classes continue to grow. This trend is driven by demand for low-impact, strength-building workouts that improve mobility and longevity. 
  • Hybrid formats are gaining ground. The lines between Pilates, strength training, yoga, and HIIT are blurring — and studios offering intelligent fusion formats are expanding their addressable market. 
  • Community is the differentiator. Members increasingly prioritize personalized experiences, intentional programming, and strong studio culture over high-capacity, transactional group fitness. 

These eight studios stand out because they don’t just follow these trends — they operationalize them. They’ve translated consumer demand into smart programming, brand clarity, and scalable business models. 

From boutique reformer concepts to globally expanding movement communities, 2026 will reward studios that balance innovation with authenticity. Growth is coming from doing the right things exceptionally well: refining the client journey, sharpening the modality, and building real community. 

Colleen Trinkaus Profile Picture

by Colleen Trinkaus Marketing Director, Mariana Tek

  • First published: February 20 2026

    Written by: Colleen Trinkaus