Absolutely yes. Fat people can do Pilates. Is that it? Is the article over?
I know there are more questions underneath that one. We live in a fatphobic world, fitness is often fatphobic, and Pilates has a reputation for being for thin people. You deserve more than a quick “everyone is welcome.” You deserve a teacher, equipment, and environment that actually work for your body.
Part of You Can Do Pilates, my series answering questions from beginners and people who are curious about starting.
WHAT TO ASK A STUDIO
Before booking, ask how experienced the teachers are with fat bodies. That includes adapting exercises and using language that respects the people in the room.
Who is your most experienced teacher for fat clients?
What are the weight limits for the equipment I will use?
Is the furniture suitable for fat bodies?
How do you adapt exercises for different bodies?
Would a current fat client be willing to share their experience?
Equipment limits vary by manufacturer and model. A studio should know the limits of its own apparatus rather than asking you to guess.
I took a workshop with Fat Body Pilates, whose work has helped shape how I think about these questions. Their equipment research is a useful resource. This work should be coming from studios; I know asking these questions puts more work on you than it should.
TELL YOUR TEACHER WHAT MATTERS TO YOU
Tell a new teacher about your Pilates experience, other movement you do, and any injuries, pain, or limitations you want them to know about. You can also tell them your preferences around touch. If you hate hands-on assists, say so.
A good teacher listens and uses that information. Your body does not need to become smaller before it deserves thoughtful instruction.
TAKE UP THE SPACE YOU NEED
Give yourself room to move. If choosing a Reformer with more space around it makes you more comfortable, do that.
If your belly is in the way of a movement, you are welcome to shift it or hold it. You know your body better than any teacher does. You can ask for a different setup, a prop, or another exercise.
You can also take a break. Full stop. You do not have to earn rest or push through something that feels wrong. If you need help understanding an exercise, ask. Helping you find a useful version of the movement is part of our job.
NOTICE HOW YOU FEEL AFTERWARD
Did the teacher listen? Were adaptations offered respectfully? Did you feel included throughout the session? Did you leave feeling respected?
Those are worthwhile questions. So is deciding that a particular teacher or studio is not a fit.
All bodies are Pilates hotties.
TRY PILATES IN OAKLAND
At Queer Pilates in Temescal, I offer private, duet, and virtual sessions with individualized attention. Explore Pilates sessions →
