Pilates studios have unique software needs that general fitness platforms don’t always address well. Equipment-based scheduling, small class sizes, and the mix of group reformer classes with private sessions require specialized functionality.
This guide covers the best software options for Pilates studios in 2026, with specific attention to reformer scheduling, equipment management, and the private/group session workflow.
Why Pilates Studios Need Specialized Software
Pilates studios differ from general fitness businesses in several key ways:
Equipment-Based Scheduling
Unlike a yoga class where you just need floor space, Pilates reformer classes require specific equipment assignments. Your software needs to:
- Track available reformer machines per time slot
- Allow equipment-specific booking (members can reserve their preferred reformer)
- Manage equipment maintenance schedules
- Handle different class sizes based on available equipment
Mixed Session Types
Most Pilates studios offer a combination of:
- Group reformer classes (4-12 participants depending on equipment)
- Mat Pilates classes (larger capacity, similar to yoga)
- Private reformer sessions (one-on-one with an instructor)
- Duet and trio sessions (small group privates)
- Workshops and series (multi-session programs)
Your software needs to handle all these modalities with different pricing structures, instructor assignments, and capacity limits.
Higher Price Points
Pilates sessions typically command higher prices than general fitness classes. Your software needs to support:
- Premium pricing for private sessions ($75-150+)
- Package deals with expiration dates
- Membership tiers with different access levels
- Series pricing for multi-session commitments
Top Pilates Studio Software Platforms
| Software | Best For | Starting Price | Equipment Scheduling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Momence | Modern Pilates studios | $99/mo | Yes |
| Mindbody | Large Pilates businesses | $139/mo | Yes |
| Vagaro | Budget Pilates studios | $30/mo | Limited |
| Walla | Boutique Pilates | $199/mo | Yes |
| Zen Planner | Community studios | $99/mo | Yes |
| WellnessLiving | All-in-one needs | $89/mo | Yes |
| ClubReady | Enterprise Pilates | Custom | Yes |
| Pike13 | Mixed modality studios | $129/mo | Yes |
1. Momence — Best Overall for Pilates Studios
Momence handles the complexity of Pilates scheduling exceptionally well. Its resource-based booking system lets you assign equipment to specific time slots while maintaining a clean member experience.
Pilates-specific strengths:
- Resource-based scheduling for reformer machines, Cadillacs, chairs, and barrels
- Mixed class types (group, private, duet) in the same schedule view
- Package management with session credits across different class types
- Beautiful booking experience that reflects premium Pilates branding
- Automated waitlists with instant promotion when spots open
Pricing and packaging capabilities:
- Create unlimited pricing tiers (unlimited reformer, 8-class pack, private session packages)
- Session credits that work across different class types
- Expiration date management for packages
- Intro offers specifically designed for Pilates trials
Marketing tools:
- Automated follow-up after first class to drive conversion
- Email and SMS campaigns targeted by class type and membership status
- Referral tracking for word-of-mouth marketing (crucial for Pilates)
- Social media integration for class promotion
Pricing: Starting at $99/month. The Pro plan at $199/month adds advanced automation and VOD hosting.
Verdict: The best overall choice for Pilates studios that want modern technology, excellent equipment scheduling, and powerful marketing tools.
2. Mindbody — Best for Established Pilates Businesses
Mindbody’s mature platform handles complex Pilates scheduling with ease. Its marketplace provides exposure to millions of potential clients actively searching for Pilates classes.
Pilates-specific strengths:
- Advanced resource scheduling with equipment assignment
- Multi-room management for studios with reformer room, mat room, and private session rooms
- Mindbody marketplace exposure — members actively search for “Pilates near me”
- Comprehensive reporting on session type revenue, instructor utilization, and equipment usage
Pricing: Starting at ~$139/month. Higher tiers unlock marketing automation and branded app.
Verdict: Best for larger Pilates studios (5+ instructors) that want marketplace visibility and enterprise features.
3. Vagaro — Best Budget Option for Pilates
Vagaro’s all-inclusive pricing makes it attractive for smaller Pilates studios. While its equipment scheduling isn’t as sophisticated as Momence or Mindbody, it handles basic reformer class management well.
Pilates-specific strengths:
- Affordable pricing starting at $30/month per instructor
- Basic resource management for equipment
- Private session scheduling with different pricing tiers
- Built-in forms for health questionnaires and waivers
Limitations for Pilates:
- Equipment scheduling is less flexible than specialized platforms
- No equipment-specific booking from the member side
- Limited package complexity compared to premium options
Pricing: $30/month for one instructor, $10 per additional.
Verdict: Great for small Pilates studios (1-3 instructors) that need affordable, functional software without advanced equipment scheduling.
4. Walla — Best for Premium Boutique Pilates
Walla was designed for boutique fitness studios, and its aesthetic and functionality align perfectly with premium Pilates businesses.
Pilates-specific strengths:
- Premium booking experience that matches luxury Pilates branding
- Excellent intro offer management for converting trial students
- Instructor performance analytics
- Revenue per session type reporting
Pricing: Starting at $199/month. Premium positioning for premium studios.
Verdict: Ideal for high-end Pilates studios that prioritize brand experience and are willing to pay for purpose-built boutique software.
Setting Up Equipment-Based Scheduling
Regardless of which platform you choose, here’s how to optimize your equipment scheduling:
Step 1: Map Your Equipment
Create an inventory of all equipment:
- Number of reformer machines
- Cadillac/trapeze tables
- Wunda chairs
- Ladder barrels
- Mat spaces
- Any other specialized equipment
Step 2: Define Class Types and Capacities
| Class Type | Equipment Needed | Max Capacity | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group Reformer | 1 reformer per person | 8-12 | 50 min | $25-45 |
| Mat Pilates | Mat space | 15-25 | 55 min | $20-30 |
| Private Reformer | 1 reformer + instructor | 1 | 55 min | $80-150 |
| Duet Reformer | 2 reformers + instructor | 2 | 55 min | $60-100/person |
| Trio Reformer | 3 reformers + instructor | 3 | 55 min | $50-80/person |
| Tower Class | 1 tower per person | 6-8 | 50 min | $30-45 |
Step 3: Configure Your Schedule
Best practices for Pilates scheduling:
- Reformer classes: Allow 15-minute gaps between classes for equipment cleaning and setup
- Private sessions: Build in 10-minute buffers for client transition
- Equipment maintenance: Block time weekly for equipment inspection and adjustment
- Peak hours: Schedule your most popular class types during prime time (early morning, lunch, after work)
Step 4: Set Up Booking Rules
Configure rules that protect your revenue and experience:
- Cancellation policy: 12-24 hour cancellation window for reformer classes (equipment can’t be easily resold)
- Late cancel fees: Charge for late cancellations to protect revenue
- Waitlist management: Automatic promotion from waitlist with notifications
- Booking windows: Open booking 1-2 weeks in advance to create urgency
Pricing Strategies for Pilates Studios
Your software should support these common Pilates pricing structures:
Membership Tiers
| Tier | Includes | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mat Unlimited | Unlimited mat classes | $129/mo |
| Reformer 4x | 4 reformer classes/month | $149/mo |
| Reformer 8x | 8 reformer classes/month | $249/mo |
| Reformer Unlimited | Unlimited reformer + mat | $349/mo |
| Private Package | 4 private sessions/month | $480/mo |
Class Packs
| Pack | Sessions | Price | Per Session |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter 5-Pack | 5 reformer | $200 | $40 |
| Standard 10-Pack | 10 reformer | $350 | $35 |
| Premium 20-Pack | 20 reformer | $600 | $30 |
| Private 5-Pack | 5 private sessions | $525 | $105 |
Intro Offers
- First class free — Lowest barrier, highest conversion effort needed
- 2 weeks unlimited for $49 — Tests commitment level
- 3 classes for $59 — Popular middle-ground option
- 1 private + 2 group for $99 — Premium intro that showcases your best offering
Member Retention for Pilates Studios
Pilates studios typically enjoy higher retention rates than general gyms (75-85% vs 60-70%), but the higher price points mean each lost member has a bigger revenue impact.
Use your software to:
- Track attendance patterns — Flag members whose attendance is declining
- Automate re-engagement — Send targeted messages to members who haven’t booked in 7+ days
- Celebrate milestones — 50th class, 100th class, 1-year anniversary
- Collect feedback — Automated post-class surveys
- Monitor package usage — Alert members when their class packs are expiring
Final Recommendation
For Pilates studios in 2026:
- Best overall: Momence — Excellent equipment scheduling, modern interface, powerful marketing
- Best for large studios: Mindbody — Marketplace visibility and enterprise features
- Best value: Vagaro — Maximum features at minimum cost
- Best for premium boutiques: Walla — Purpose-built for luxury fitness experiences
Choose the platform that handles your specific equipment scheduling needs and supports your pricing structure. Pilates is a premium service — your software should reflect that.