Peak Pilates' Pilates Studio Connect™ makes on-demand Pilates possible without an instructor. With over 500 professionally led classes accessible at any time, this system allows studios and gyms to expand their offerings with minimal staffing, while members can train completely independently.
In recent months, we've been hearing more and more conversations with studio owners and fitness club managers grappling with the same challenge: how to offer more Pilates classes without constantly adding staff? Demand for Reformer Pilates is growing exponentially, but the availability of qualified instructors can't keep pace. At the same time, members are increasingly expecting flexibility. They no longer want to be dependent on a fixed class schedule, but want to train whenever it suits them.
At a recent trade show in the United States, a solution immediately caught our attention: Peak Pilates' Studio Connect™. A digital system that provides high-quality Pilates coaching without the need for a constant instructor.
How does Studio Connect™ work?
Essentially, it's a 21.5-inch touchscreen system placed next to a Reformer. Through this screen, users can access a library of over 500 professionally recorded Pilates classes. The beauty is that new workouts are added every week, so the selection stays fresh and relevant.
Users select a class that suits their level and can begin immediately. The on-screen instructors provide clear instructions, just as you would expect in a live class. They explain which springs are needed, how to set up the reformer, and what the focus of the workout will be. The system works with all reformers, although spring colors may vary by brand. The instructors always indicate whether you need light, medium, or heavy resistance, so that's easily arranged.
What's immediately noticeable is that the system isn't just focused on general exercises. There are specialized programs for pregnancy, injury recovery, and targeted workouts for specific muscle groups. Mat Pilates classes are also available. This makes it appealing to a wide audience, from recreational athletes to those pursuing a specific goal.
Why studios are excited about this
In conversations with studio owners who have already integrated the system, the flexibility is particularly prominent. A studio can now be open from six in the morning to ten at night, for example, without incurring additional staff costs. Members can train independently, while instructors can focus on group classes or personal training sessions.
It's interesting for gyms because Pilates is suddenly becoming more accessible to a wider audience. Not everyone is comfortable joining a group class right away, but with Studio Connect™, you can start at your own pace. You can pause a class if you don't understand something, rewind to revisit a move, or simply work out at a quieter time when the studio is less crowded.
Hotels and businesses are also increasingly discovering it. A hotel with a fitness center can now offer Pilates to guests without the need for an instructor. Offices that invest in employee happiness can create a full-fledged Pilates program with a single system.
The practical side
The system is surprisingly easy to install. It requires a base unit measuring 112 cm high and 44.5 cm wide, with the touchscreen mounted on top. It works via Bluetooth for audio and can be paired with Apple HealthKit and the Apple Watch for heart rate monitoring. This is useful for those who want to track their workouts.
An important point to note: the system itself is a one-time investment, but access to the classes requires a separate subscription for each kiosk. This subscription is purchased directly from Peak Pilates. The advantage is that you always have access to the latest content and updates. The subscription allows you to create profiles for users so they can track their progress and classes.
Classes are in English, which might be a consideration for some studios. In practice, this doesn't seem to be a problem for most people. Pilates uses many universal terms, and the visual guidance on the screen makes things clear, even without perfect command of the language.
Who is this interesting for?
Studio Connect™ is especially valuable for studios and fitness clubs looking to expand their Pilates offerings without increasing staff. It allows them to extend their hours and serve a wider audience.
It can also be interesting for studios just starting out. They can start with a limited number of live classes and supplement their offerings with on-demand training. This way, membership can gradually build without immediately incurring large staff costs.
Gyms that want to add Reformer Pilates to their offerings but are unsure about its feasibility can easily get started with this program. There's no need to hire a full team of certified Pilates instructors right away. The system already offers that expertise.
A good match for existing equipment
The beauty of the Studio Connect™ is that it works with all Reformers. Whether equipment is already installed or you're still getting acquainted, the system is flexible. The Pilates Store offers a wide range of Reformers, from compact models for smaller spaces to professional studio versions like the Balanced Body Studio Reformer or the Elina Pilates Elite Reformer . These models are built for intensive use and form a solid foundation for a system like the Studio Connect™.
What professionals say about on-demand Pilates systems
Studio owners worldwide are experimenting with digital Pilates solutions, and the results are promising. Many report that their members greatly appreciate the flexibility. It makes a huge difference, especially for those with busy schedules or irregular work hours.
Another point that often comes up is consistency in quality. With live lessons, there are always differences between instructors. Some are better at cueing, others focus more on alignment. With a digital system, every user receives the same professional guidance from experienced instructors.
Of course, there are caveats. Some studio owners feel it's important to emphasize that digital classes can never fully replace in-person contact, and users aren't corrected during exercises. The strength lies in the combination: live classes for the personal attention and community, on-demand for the flexibility and accessibility.
The investment
Purchasing a Studio Connect™ system is an investment. It's not an impulse buy, but a strategic choice that aligns with a long-term vision. Consider the added value it offers: extended opening hours, a broader selection, and less reliance on staff scheduling.
For studios currently struggling to meet demand, the system can pay for itself relatively quickly. Every additional training offered without an additional instructor is a win. For gyms looking to add Pilates but unsure about investing in staff, it can be a way to test interest before making major commitments.
A new development in Pilates
The Studio Connect™ isn't a replacement for a traditional Pilates instructor. It's a complement. A way to give more people access to quality Pilates training, regardless of their schedule or instructor availability. And that aligns perfectly with where the fitness industry is headed: more choice, more flexibility, more accessibility.
For studios and gyms struggling with growing demand and limited capacity, or looking to expand their offerings without proportionally increasing staff, this is a solution worth considering. It requires an initial investment and a subscription for the content, but offers freedom and flexibility in return.
Looking to the future
These types of systems will likely become increasingly common. People's expectations are changing. They no longer want to be dependent on fixed times and locations. They want quality, but also convenience. Studio Connect™ cleverly addresses this by combining professional guidance with complete scheduling freedom.
It will be especially interesting to see how studios will use this. Some will use it as a supplement to their existing class schedules, while others will adapt their entire business model. The coming years will undoubtedly yield new insights into how digital Pilates systems can best be integrated.
For studios or gyms that recognize themselves in the challenges described, it might be time to explore what such a system can do for them. It's not the right choice for everyone, but for some, it could be exactly what they need to take the next step.
The 5 most frequently asked questions
Does the Studio Connect™ work with every Reformer?
Yes, the system is compatible with all Reformer brands. Spring colors may vary by brand, but instructors always specify the resistance level (light, medium, or heavy) you need, so it's easy to translate that to your specific equipment.
Is there an instructor present or do you train completely independently?
You train completely independently with professional guidance on screen. The instructors guide you through the class as if they were standing right next to you, but there's no need for a live instructor. Ideal for studios that want to offer flexible hours without additional staff.
How many lessons are available and will new ones be added?
The library contains over 500 lessons for all levels, from beginner to advanced. New workouts are added weekly, including specialized programs for pregnancy, recovery, and specific goals, so the selection stays current.
What do you need to install the system?
You'll need a Reformer and sufficient space for the base column (112 cm high, 44.5 cm wide). The system works via Bluetooth and requires an internet connection. Installation is simple and requires no technical expertise.
Are the costs one-time or do you pay a subscription?
The Studio Connect™ system itself is a one-time purchase. You'll also need a separate subscription to access the classes, purchased directly from Peak Pilates. This ensures you always have access to the latest content.
