The Dark Side of the Pilates Influencer Trend – And How We Do It Differently
Pilates has seen a massive surge in popularity over the past few years—and while that growth is exciting, it’s come with a downside. Social media is now flooded with videos of “crazy” Pilates moves and reformer tricks designed to grab attention, not prioritize safety. Increasingly, these videos even show falls, near-misses, and injuries, which ultimately give Pilates a bad name.
This content may go viral, but it misrepresents what Pilates actually is—and what it should be.
The Risks Behind the Scroll
Scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, you’ll often see unsafe positions and extremely advanced movements that should only ever be practiced one-on-one with a highly trained instructor—never in a group class. Even more concerning, some creators are now openly posting clips of people losing control, falling off equipment, or getting hurt, treating it as entertainment.
What these videos don’t show is the long-term impact: injuries, fear around Pilates, and a distorted public perception of a method that was designed to be precise, controlled, and rehabilitative. Common red flags include:
Falls and injuries being normalized: When accidents are shared for clicks, it suggests poor supervision, unsafe setups, or inappropriate exercise choices.
Unsafe equipment use: Incorrect spring settings, unstable setups, or rushed transitions significantly increase injury risk.
Untrained or undertrained instructors: Many influencers lack comprehensive Pilates education, anatomy knowledge, or real teaching experience.
Advanced movements without preparation: Complex exercises are shown without the years of foundational work required to perform them safely.
Technique sacrificed for aesthetics: Movements are chosen because they look impressive, not because they serve the body.
Why Safe, Real Pilates Matters
At The Studio Boutique Pilates, we take a very different approach. We do none of what you see in these viral clips. Our classes are rooted in real Pilates—methodical, intelligent, and taught with intention.
Every instructor at our studio is fully trained and certified, understands biomechanics, and knows how to progress clients safely. Advanced work is introduced thoughtfully and, when appropriate, is reserved for private or semi-private sessions—not group classes.
We prioritize:
Safety and control over spectacle
Proper use of equipment
Clear cueing and hands-on education
Progressions that respect each client’s body and experience level
Pilates should make you feel stronger, more confident, and supported—not afraid of falling or getting hurt.
What Clients Should Watch For
When choosing a Pilates studio, be mindful of:
Studios or instructors who post falls or injuries as entertainment
Group classes that encourage everyone to attempt the same advanced exercises without offering modifications
Instructors who cannot clearly explain their training or credentials
Equipment setups that look rushed, unstable, or poorly supervised
A lack of regressions, corrections, or individualized attention
Pilates is not a performance—and it certainly shouldn’t come with injury compilations. It’s a practice built on control, precision, and respect for the body.
At The Studio Boutique Pilates, we’re proud to teach Pilates the way it was intended: safe, intelligent, and effective. No viral stunts. No shortcuts. Just quality movement and lasting results.
