Baby pilates emerges as a new trend amid the Dutch pilates craze
The number of pilates studios in the Netherlands has nearly quintupled over the past 10 years, according to registrations with the Kamer van Koophandel, as new formats such as babypilates, matcha-pilates and disco pilates gain popularity, De Telegraaf reported.
In Maastricht, Eet Beweeg Ontspan now offers “Mini and Me” babypilates classes, where mothers exercise alongside their infants. The sessions are designed so parents do not need to arrange child care and can connect with other adults. The children are not expected to participate. However, a De Telegraaf reporter observed seven-month-old Zane, the oldest participant, imitating his mother’s movements during the class. The concept has attracted participants from beyond the city, including at least one mother who travels weekly from Antwerpen to Maastricht.
Babypilates is part of a broader trend toward themed pilates classes. Studios across the country have introduced matcha-pilates, disco pilates, Halloween sessions, pink-themed classes and Christmas specials, De Telegraaf reported.
National figures show that the number of businesses registered specifically as pilates studios has almost increased fivefold over the past decade. The data does not include gyms or yoga studios that also offer pilates classes.
“Social media definitely plays a big role,” babypilates instructor Aafke Meelen told De Telegraaf. She said Instagram and TikTok are filled with videos of young women heading to pilates classes while drinking matcha. “It’s more than just a sport,” she said, explaining that influencers have turned pilates into a lifestyle.
