Pilates retreats offer a perfect balance of relaxation, fitness, and self-discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner looking to deepen your practice or a newbie hoping to improve flexibility and muscle tone, these retreats can be transformative.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find your ideal Pilates retreat—location, class types, wellness activities, and yes, even how to avoid sketchy retreat centers that look great online but are actually more “rustic” than relaxing.
What Is a Pilates Retreat?
A Pilates retreat is an immersive getaway where participants engage in daily Pilates classes, wellness activities, and relaxation sessions. These retreats often take place in serene surroundings of beautiful nature like beaches, forests, or mountain resorts, providing a break from the chaos of everyday life.
But it’s not just about Pilates. Many retreats cater to a broader sense of well-being, offering yoga and meditation, spa treatments, body massage, and even outdoor adventures like hiking or scuba diving. The goal? To give your mind and body the space they need to reset and recharge.
(If you’re new to Pilates, check out this helpful guide on how to become a Pilates instructor to build a solid foundation for your practice.)
Why Should You Consider a Pilates Retreat?
Pilates retreats aren’t just an excuse to wear cute workout gear in tropical locations (though, no shame if that’s part of the appeal). Research in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity indicated that Pilates might improve balance in older adults, potentially reducing the risk of falls.
Here’s what you can gain:
- Physical Benefits: Strengthen core muscles, improve flexibility, and boost posture.
- Mental Health Perks: Step away from daily stress and find peace through mindfulness and meditation.
- Personal Growth: Connect with like-minded individuals who value wellness and self-care.
When I went on my first retreat in La Palma, Canary Islands, I noticed my lower back pain eased up after just a few reformer Pilates sessions. Plus, I met people who were just as excited about wellness as I was, which made the whole experience feel like a supportive environment for personal growth.
How Do You Choose the Right Pilates Retreat?
Choosing a Pilates retreat can be intimidating—there are so many gorgeous options out there! Here’s a quick checklist to help narrow it down:
1. Location, Location, Location
The setting of your retreat can make or break the exercise experience. Do you want to hear ocean waves during your Pilates sessions or prefer the fresh, pine-scented air of a mountain retreat?
- Beach lovers: Check out retreats in Bali, Costa Rica, or the Canary Islands.
- Nature enthusiasts: Consider forest retreats with wellness activities like forest bathing.
- City escapees: Quiet countryside settings or small island retreats can help you truly disconnect.
Personally, I loved waking up to the sound of birds chirping in La Palma. Plus, the retreat center was just a short walk from a secluded beach—a perfect spot for post-session reflection.
2. Class Style and Level
Pilates isn’t one-size-fits-all, so make sure the retreat you pick matches your level and interests.
- Mat Pilates: Great for beginners or those who prefer bodyweight exercises.
- Reformer Pilates: Uses equipment to provide resistance and deepen muscle engagement.
- Mixed-level retreats: Perfect if you’re traveling with friends who have different experience levels.
A study by Neil Wolkodoff, PhD, tested an eight-week Pilates and aerobic program using a Pilates reformer with a trampoline attachment. The 14 participants saw a 28% increase in strength and endurance, a 24% improvement in strength-to-weight ratio, a 17% boost in VO2 peak, 11% better body composition, and 5% more lean muscle mass.
Need help figuring out the right Pilates path? Here’s a great resource on choosing the right Pilates certification to find the best fit for your goals.
3. Wellness Extras
A Pilates retreat isn’t just about the classes—it’s about the overall vibe and the wellness activities included.
- Spa treatments and body massage
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking
- Nutrition or wellness consultations
Pro tip: Check if these fun extras are included or cost extra. I once booked a retreat assuming the soothing massages were part of the package—spoiler alert, they weren’t. My bank account still hasn’t forgiven me.
4. Instructor Credentials
You want someone who knows their stuff. Look for instructors certified through reputable programs like Balanced Body or BASI Pilates. Experienced instructors understand how to adjust movements to accommodate injuries or different fitness levels.
Ask the Pilates retreat cater and organizers about the instructors’ certifications, years of teaching experience, and their approach to Pilates practice. If you’re investing in this trip, you want professional guidance—not a weekend warrior who watched a YouTube video on Pilates.
5. Retreat Vibe and Group Size
Some retreats feel like luxury spa getaways; others have more of a “campfire and soul-sharing” vibe. Decide what you’re looking for:
- Luxury escapes: Think beachfront villas with spa treatments and gourmet meals.
- Wellness-focused: Daily Pilates sessions, meditation, and healthier lifestyle-oriented activities.
- Adventure-filled: Retreats that mix Pilates with free time packed with activities like hiking, biking, or even scuba diving.
Smaller groups (10-12 people) tend to feel more intimate and allow for more personalized attention during Pilates classes. Larger retreats can be great if you love meeting lots of new people.
What Should You Pack for a Pilates Retreat?
Packing for a Pilates retreat is pretty straightforward, but there are a few must-haves you might not think about:
- Comfortable workout clothes: Breathable fabrics for Pilates sessions.
- Grip socks: Important for reformer Pilates to avoid slipping.
- Water bottle: Hydration is key—especially if you’re somewhere warm.
- Notebook or journal: You’ll have plenty of insights and reflections.
- Swimsuit: If your retreat includes spa treatments or beach access.
I once forgot my grip socks and had to buy a pair from the retreat’s tiny gift shop—for triple the usual price. Learn from my mistakes.
Are Pilates Retreats Worth It?
Yes, Pilates retreats are absolutely worth it if you’re looking to strengthen and deepen your Pilates practice, improve physical health, and take a meaningful break from daily life. The mix of Pilates classes, and relaxation creates a perfect balance that helps you return home feeling stronger, calmer, and more grounded.
Research consistently supports the stress-relieving benefits of mind-body practices like yoga and Pilates. For instance, a review in the International Journal of Yoga found that regular yoga practice improves mindfulness, which helps reduce stress levels. Multiple studies have shown that activities like Pilates, which focus on breath control and intentional movement, can lower cortisol levels and improve overall well-being.
I came back from my retreat not only with better posture and increased muscle tone but also with a renewed sense of calm. My coworkers even asked if I’d had a secret vacation glow-up. (Spoiler: It was just the Pilates.)
How Do You Protect Yourself When Hosting a Pilates Retreat?
While Pilates retreats are generally safe, it’s smart to think about protection—especially if you’re running a wellness business or teaching Pilates. Accidents can happen, and having liability insurance through providers like Insure Fitness Group can give you peace of body and mind, too.
Imagine guiding a group through a reformer Pilates session, and someone strains a muscle. Without coverage, you might be on the hook for medical costs or legal claims. Insure Fitness Group offers tailored policies for Pilates instructors so you can focus on helping clients without worrying about what-ifs.
Finding your perfect Pilates retreat is like finding the right pair of running shoes—it needs to fit your needs, goals, and personality. Whether you’re seeking serene surroundings, advanced Pilates knowledge, or just a chance to practice in a beautiful location, there are a few top Pilates retreats out there for you. So go ahead—book that trip, pack your grip socks, and get ready to experience the transformative power of Pilates.
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