This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a pilates studio.
Our business plan for a pilates studio will help you build a profitable project
Opening a pilates studio is exciting, but figuring out what equipment you need can feel overwhelming.
The tricky part is knowing exactly what to buy without going broke or missing something crucial.
Every pilates studio has different needs, and equipment costs can quickly spiral out of control if you're not careful about planning.
Complete Pilates Studio Equipment List
Opening a successful pilates studio requires careful planning and the right equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to get your pilates studio up and running.
Core Pilates Equipment
- Reformer machines - Essential for full-body resistance workouts and core strengthening
- Cadillac/Tower - Provides versatility for advanced exercises and rehabilitation work
- Chair (Wunda Chair) - Compact equipment for challenging stability and strength exercises
- Ladder Barrel - Supports spinal mobility and strengthening exercises
- Spine Corrector - Helps with posture improvement and spinal alignment
- Pilates Arc - Assists with back extension and core strengthening
- High Chair - Advanced equipment for experienced practitioners
- Ped-a-Pul - Wall-mounted springs for upper body and rehabilitation exercises
Mat Work Equipment
- Pilates mats - High-quality thick mats for floor exercises and comfort
- Magic Circle (Pilates Ring) - Adds resistance to mat exercises effectively
- Resistance bands - Various resistance levels for strength and flexibility work
- Small balls - Enhances core engagement and stability challenges
- Foam rollers - Essential for muscle recovery and myofascial release
- Pilates blocks - Provides support and modification for different skill levels
- Balance pads - Improves proprioception and core stability training
- Therabands - Lightweight resistance tools for rehabilitation and strengthening
Studio Furniture & Setup
- Mirror walls - Essential for form correction and spatial awareness
- Ballet barres - Supports standing exercises and stretching routines
- Storage racks - Organizes small equipment and keeps studio tidy
- Equipment carts - Mobile storage for easy equipment transport
- Cubbies/lockers - Secure storage for clients' personal belongings
- Seating area - Comfortable space for consultation and waiting
- Reception desk - Professional front desk for client check-in
- Sound system - Quality speakers for music and instruction audio
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Equipment sanitizer - Maintains hygiene standards between client sessions
- Microfiber towels - Gentle cleaning cloths for equipment surfaces
- Vacuum cleaner - Keeps studio floors clean and professional looking
- Air purifier - Maintains fresh air quality in enclosed spaces
- Cleaning supplies - All-purpose cleaners safe for equipment materials
- Paper towels - Disposable cleaning materials for quick cleanups
- Hand sanitizer stations - Accessible hygiene options for clients and staff
Client Comfort & Amenities
- Water bottles - Hydration options for clients during sessions
- Towels - Clean towels for client use and equipment cleaning
- Changing room facilities - Private space for clients to change clothing
- Heating/cooling system - Climate control for year-round comfort
- Lighting system - Adjustable lighting for different class atmospheres
- First aid kit - Safety equipment for handling minor injuries
- Emergency contact information - Posted safety protocols and contacts
Business Operations
- Scheduling software - Manages class bookings and client appointments efficiently
- Payment processing system - Handles transactions and membership billing
- Client management software - Tracks progress, preferences, and contact information
- Accounting software - Manages finances, payroll, and tax records
- Marketing materials - Professional brochures, business cards, and signage
- Insurance coverage - Liability protection for business and instructors
- Professional certifications - Required credentials for instructors and studio
Technology & Audio-Visual
- Bluetooth speakers - Wireless audio system for classes and background music
- Microphone system - Ensures instructor voice carries throughout studio space
- Tablet/computer - Manages scheduling, payments, and client communications
- Security system - Protects expensive equipment and ensures studio safety
- Website platform - Online presence for bookings and business promotion
Instructor Tools
- Anatomy charts - Visual aids for explaining exercises and body mechanics
- Timer/stopwatch - Tracks exercise duration and rest periods accurately
- Notebook/clipboard - Records client progress and session notes
- Professional attire - Comfortable, professional clothing for instruction
- Continuing education materials - Books and resources for ongoing learning
Our financial plan for a pilates studio will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most pilates studio owners spend between $30,000 and $150,000 on equipment, depending on their size and concept. You really can't go below $15,000 for even the smallest setup because you need basic reformers and essential equipment just to operate professionally and safely.
- Small Boutique Studio
A small boutique pilates studio with basic equipment needs around $15,000-$40,000, and most of that budget goes toward quality reformers and essential mat work equipment.
- Medium-Sized Studio
A medium-sized studio offering diverse classes typically runs $40,000-$80,000, with more specialized equipment like Cadillacs and advanced apparatus.
- Large Comprehensive Studio
A large studio or one with extensive offerings can easily hit $80,000-$150,000, especially when you add multiple reformers and premium specialized equipment.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Boutique Studio ($15,000 - $40,000)
Small studios focus on essential equipment that can handle daily classes and private sessions. The goal is getting quality basics without overspending on features you won't use right away.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Reformers | 3-4 quality reformers with adjustable springs, footbars, and carriage systems, suitable for group classes | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Mat Equipment | High-quality mats, magic circles, resistance bands, small balls, blocks, and foam rollers for mat classes | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Studio Setup | Mirror installation, basic sound system, storage solutions, and essential studio furniture | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Business Systems | Basic scheduling software, payment processing, simple reception setup, and initial marketing materials | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Accessories | Cleaning supplies, towels, basic first aid, water bottles, and essential maintenance items | $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Professional Setup | Insurance, certifications, basic website, and professional consultation for studio layout | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Installation & Training | Equipment delivery, basic installation, initial staff training, and studio preparation | $1,500 - $3,000 |
Medium-Sized Studio ($40,000 - $80,000)
Medium studios need more variety and capacity to handle diverse classes and higher client volume. You're investing in versatility and the ability to offer specialized pilates experiences.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Core Equipment | 6-8 reformers, 1-2 Cadillac/Tower units, Wunda chairs, ladder barrel, and spine corrector | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Specialized Apparatus | High chair, Pilates arc, Ped-a-Pul systems, and additional advanced equipment for variety | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Mat Work Expansion | Extensive mat equipment collection, multiple resistance levels, balance training tools, and props | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Studio Infrastructure | Professional mirror systems, advanced sound/microphone setup, climate control, and lighting | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Client Amenities | Changing rooms, storage lockers, seating area, water station, and comfort enhancements | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Business Technology | Advanced scheduling system, client management software, payment processing, and marketing tools | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Professional Services | Comprehensive insurance, advanced certifications, professional website, and consultant fees | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Setup & Training | Professional installation, comprehensive staff training, studio design consultation, and permits | $3,000 - $6,000 |
Large Comprehensive Studio ($80,000 - $150,000)
Large studios operate with extensive equipment variety and premium systems. The focus shifts to maximizing class diversity, accommodating high volume, and providing luxury experiences.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Reformers | 10-15 high-end reformers with advanced features, multiple spring configurations, and premium materials | $25,000 - $40,000 |
| Complete Apparatus Collection | Multiple Cadillacs, various chairs, barrels, arcs, and specialized equipment for comprehensive programming | $20,000 - $35,000 |
| Advanced Mat Systems | Extensive prop collection, specialized tools, multiple resistance options, and rehabilitation equipment | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Luxury Studio Design | Premium mirrors, professional lighting systems, advanced climate control, and acoustic treatments | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Client Experience | Luxury amenities, premium changing facilities, relaxation areas, and high-end comfort features | $6,000 - $12,000 |
| Technology Integration | Comprehensive business management systems, mobile apps, virtual class capabilities, and automation | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Specialized Equipment | Rehabilitation tools, pregnancy modifications, senior-specific equipment, and therapeutic apparatus | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Professional Implementation | Expert consultation, custom installation, comprehensive training programs, and ongoing support | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Business Development | Premium insurance packages, advanced certifications, professional marketing, and consultant services | $4,000 - $8,000 |