In a significant shift that signals changing priorities in the U.S. fitness landscape, men across the country are increasingly embracing Pilates and low-impact training routines. A comprehensive survey by LifeTime, released on June 21, 2025, revealed that 75% of fitness-conscious Americans—including 60% of men—now prioritize health and sustainability in their workout choices. This changing tide has propelled Pilates to the top spot on ClassPass among male users, underscoring a transformation in how men view wellness, strength, and longevity.
While traditional strength training continues to play a central role in male fitness routines, the rise of Pilates and low-impact exercise speaks to a broader reevaluation of what it means to be “fit.” According to the LifeTime survey, reservations for low-impact classes such as walking, steady-state cardio, and Pilates have jumped by an astounding 109%. These forms of exercise are being recognized not just for their physical benefits but for their mental health advantages and their ability to support long-term mobility and joint integrity.
The boom in Pilates—particularly Reformer Pilates, which utilizes specialized resistance equipment—marks a redefinition of the workout’s image. Once considered a niche activity popular among women or injury rehab patients, Pilates has been embraced by a growing number of men seeking strength, flexibility, and a powerful core without the wear and tear associated with high-impact regimens.
Fitness experts point to a cultural shift that places increased value on wellness longevity. “Men are realizing that pushing through pain and chasing quick results isn’t sustainable,” said Jason Holloway, a certified personal trainer and mobility coach in Chicago. “They want to be strong and active in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. Low-impact training gives them a way to build that foundation.”
This sentiment is echoed by data from fitness apps and studios nationwide. ClassPass reports that Pilates is among its highest-retained class types, meaning users who try it are likely to return consistently. Studios across the U.S. have responded by expanding their Pilates offerings and adapting classes to be more accessible to male beginners. Some gyms have even launched male-focused Pilates sessions to reduce stigma and highlight the athletic demands of the workout.
The rise of “Zone 2” cardio—moderate-intensity aerobic exercise that is known for improving metabolic health and endurance—is also gaining traction. This form of training, often done through activities like brisk walking, rowing, or steady cycling, is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone for cardiovascular longevity.
Additionally, hybrid functional training formats that blend cardio, strength, and mobility—such as HYROX-style events—are attracting a wide male audience. These competitions, which pair endurance running with functional fitness stations, have surged in popularity for their versatility and mental toughness appeal. With participation growing rapidly, they serve as an entry point for men who want to test their limits without over-relying on repetitive high-impact workouts.
This evolution in male fitness habits has sparked industry-wide responses. Gym chains and boutique studios alike are investing in new equipment and scheduling more low-impact classes. Recovery-focused offerings like foam rolling, fascial release, and guided breathwork are now regular parts of weekly programming in many men’s fitness plans.
Dr. Elena Ramirez, a sports medicine physician in Denver, sees these changes as a long overdue course correction. “We’ve known for years that injuries and burnout rates were high among men pushing intense training without proper recovery. The pivot to Pilates and functional mobility is a healthier, smarter approach to lifelong fitness.”
The impact of this shift is not limited to physical outcomes. Many male clients report enhanced mental clarity, reduced anxiety, and a better sense of overall wellbeing after adopting low-impact training routines. The mind-body connection emphasized in Pilates, combined with the community atmosphere of group functional classes, appears to be resonating deeply.
For younger men, this trend offers new ways to build strength and resilience without falling into the trap of overtraining. For older men, it provides an accessible on-ramp back into fitness that respects the changing needs of aging bodies.
Looking ahead, industry analysts predict continued growth in these modalities. Wearable tech and AI-powered apps are now tailoring fitness plans that incorporate mobility, flexibility, and low-impact cardio, aligning with this broader movement. And with high-profile athletes and celebrities publicly endorsing Pilates and functional mobility, social perceptions are quickly shifting.
Ultimately, 2025 may be remembered as a turning point—a year when men across the country began embracing fitness not just as a tool for physical transformation, but as a vehicle for sustainable health and performance over the long haul.