As a self-proclaimed Pilates princess, I’m obsessed with chill, low-impact workouts– but I still crave that burn, so when I moved to Halifax, I wasn’t sure if I’d find a studio that suited me perfectly. Thankfully, I was mistaken. Halifax has curated one of the most aesthetic, strong, and welcoming pilates communities I’ve ever experienced. From heated workout classes that help you sweat out toxins to classic pilates classes that leave your legs shaking, I have compiled a fool-proof list of my go-to studios that have become a staple in my weekly routine. Most of these studio classes range from 45 to 50 minutes–just enough time to get a killer workout in without totally dismantling your day.
Pro tip: bring your own yoga mat (and yoga towel for heated classes so you don’t slip!) to avoid the extra charge of renting every time.
OXYGEN YOGA AND FITNESS – 5410 DOYLE ST.
Oxygen is a classic – the perfect balance between tranquillity and intensity. There’s definitely a bit of a misconception that oxygen is just hot yoga, but in reality, it offers so much more. This Canadian-owned fitness chain has a plethora of different classes, including Hot Tone & Sculpt, Hot Power Core, Hot Core-Lates, and so many others. My favourite is the 8:00 AM Hot Barre Fusion taught by Jordan. It always starts my day off on such a high- I love that the class blends barre with pilates, allowing me to strengthen my skills on both the barre and mat. The added heat in the room makes it even more challenging! I also love the use of props like resistance bands and pilates balls to keep every class dynamic and fun. Each class is $27, with memberships available at $65/bi-weekly.
JUST CYCLE – 5536 SACKVILLE ST
Just Studios has quickly become one of my favourite places to work out. While they are famously known for the spin classes that make you feel like you’re in the club, their mat pilates deserves just as much attention. The 4:30 pm Just Booty & Core is my top pick, with instructor Brittany bringing the heat every time. The session is non-heated and challenging, but not intimidating whatsoever. What I love the most about Just is the diverse array of class options– you can hop into a 50 or 60-minute spin class before and after pilates. Mixing low impact with high impact is the perfect combo for the best workout of your life! The studio has such a positive, high-energy environment that will leave you feeling more accomplished and grounded with each class. Each class is $25, or you can purchase an unlimited monthly membership for $170.00/month.
RINSE (RSTUDIOS) – 1512 DRESDEN ROW
My tried and true. If I could only recommend one studio to check out in Halifax, Rinse would be my #1 choice. I go almost every day, but my favourite classes are Nicola’s Mat Mondays at 4:00 p.m. and Katie’s Candlelit Hot Pilates on Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. They also have great yoga classes and combo classes that blend yoga and pilates. All classes are heated, and as an extra bonus, you can use their in-house sauna and cold plunge after class. Every class uses a variety of props–like yoga blocks, body bars, and pilates rings–to make things a little spicier. Each session ends with the instructor dropping a cold lavender towel on your back- the perfect reward that will make you feel proud of completing what felt impossible. The vibes are unmatched, the instructors are excellent, the music is impeccable, and the facilities are truly stunning. You can tell how much the studio truly cares about its clients. Classes are $30/class, and the unlimited monthly student membership (which I have and could not recommend more) is $130 a month.
Since moving to Halifax, I have learned that you don’t need to be an influencer or own expensive matching workout sets to get into pilates – all you need is the right studio. These studio recommendations have provided me with a safe and comfortable space to move my body, clear my mind, and build a perfect fitness routine that I actually enjoy and look forward to. Take it from me– once you find your favourite instructor, find classes you adore, and start bringing your own mat, there’s no going back.