Could Pilates Help You Live Longer? New Research Highlights the Power of Movement
From building strength and improving balance to supporting long-term wellness, discover why Pilates is so much more than a workout.
What if one of the best things you could do for your long-term health was something you genuinely enjoyed?
At Studio 12 Pilates, we believe movement should be something you look forward to, not something you have to check off your to-do list. And new research from Arizona State University suggests that Pilates may offer benefits that extend far beyond the studio.
A 2026 study examining more than 55,000 U.S. adults found a compelling association between Pilates participation and a lower risk of death. While the research doesn't prove that Pilates directly increases lifespan, it adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the importance of consistent movement, strength, balance, and overall physical well-being.
So, what did researchers discover, and what makes Pilates, particularly reformer Pilates, such a valuable part of a healthy lifestyle?
The Research: Pilates Associated With a 36% Lower Risk of Death
In September 2026, Arizona State University shared findings from a study examining the relationship between complementary and alternative health practices and mortality.
Researchers analyzed nationally representative data from more than 55,000 U.S. adults, linked to mortality records spanning approximately a decade. They examined 21 different wellness practices, including acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, yoga, and Pilates.
The findings were especially interesting for Pilates enthusiasts.
36%
Lower risk of death associated with Pilates participation
Observed association in the ASU-reported study, not a demonstrated causal reduction in mortality.
Of the 21 practices examined, only yoga and Pilates were associated with a meaningfully lower risk of death. Yoga was linked to a 27% lower risk, while Pilates was linked to a 36% lower risk.
Researchers accounted for several factors, including income, education, exercise habits, smoking, body mass index, and self-reported health.
However, the researchers emphasized an important distinction: association does not mean causation. The findings do not establish that practicing Pilates directly makes someone live longer. People who participate in Pilates may also engage in other healthy behaviors that contribute to their overall longevity.
Still, the results offer an exciting reason to take a closer look at what Pilates brings to our health and wellness routines.
Source: Arizona State University, September 2026
Why Pilates? The Benefits Go Beyond the Workout
According to ASU researchers, Pilates may stand out because it combines several important elements of healthy living: physical activity, strength, balance, breath work, stress management, and social connection.
These benefits are especially valuable as we age, helping support mobility, independence, and overall well-being.
What Makes Reformer Pilates So Effective?
While the ASU study examined Pilates generally, reformer Pilates offers a unique way to build strength and improve how your body moves.
Using adjustable spring resistance, a moving carriage, and controlled exercises, the reformer delivers a challenging, low-impact, full-body workout.
The benefits of reformer Pilates include:
Full-body strength: Builds muscular strength and endurance, particularly through the core, legs, glutes, and upper body.
Better balance and stability: Improves coordination and body awareness, supporting everyday movement and healthy aging.
Core strength and mobility: Develops trunk stability, controlled movement, and flexibility.
Low-impact exercise: Offers adjustable resistance and modifications for different fitness levels and abilities.
Mind-body connection: Encourages intentional breathing, concentration, and mindful movement.
Research has also shown that Pilates can improve aspects of physical fitness and balance in older adults, making it a valuable addition to a well-rounded exercise routine.
The Power of Community
One of the most interesting takeaways from the ASU research is the potential importance of social connection.
Researchers noted that group Pilates classes may offer more than physical exercise by bringing together movement, stress management, and community.
At Studio 12 Pilates, we see this firsthand.
With just eight reformers, our intimate classes create opportunities for personalized instruction, meaningful connections, and a supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
Because sometimes the best part of showing up is the people you get to move alongside.
Pilates Today. Stronger for Life.
While more research is needed to determine whether Pilates directly contributes to a longer lifespan, the benefits of regular movement, strength training, balance, and social connection are well established.
Pilates is about more than what you accomplish in a 45-minute class. It's about building strength, confidence, and healthy habits that support you through every stage of life.
Experience the Studio 12 Difference
Located in Folsom, California, Studio 12 Pilates offers an elevated, welcoming approach to reformer Pilates.
Eight reformers. Expert instruction. One incredible Pilates community, right here in Folsom.
Whether you're brand new to Pilates or looking to take your practice further, we're here to help you move stronger, feel better, and make movement part of your lifestyle.
Book Your Next Class at Studio 12 Pilates
Sources & Further Reading
The following research and public health resources support the findings discussed in this article.
1. Arizona State University (2026). ASU researchers find yoga and Pilates associated with longer lifespans. Read ASU's research summary. This is the source for the study population, mortality associations, and researcher commentary.
2. Sheehan, C., Espinoza, P., Xie, Y., et al. (2026). Original study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. View study abstract. Primary research underlying ASU's report.
3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2018). Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd Edition. View guidelines. Supports the importance of regular aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity.
4. World Health Organization (2020). WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour. View guidelines. Supports physical activity, strength, and balance training as components of healthy aging.
5. Bullo, V., et al. (2015). The effects of Pilates exercise training on physical fitness and wellbeing in the elderly: A systematic review. Frontiers in Medicine, 2, 47. Read research. Reviews evidence on Pilates and physical function in older adults.
6. Yamato, T. P., et al. (2015). Pilates for low back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Read review. Examines Pilates for people with nonspecific low back pain.
7. Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLOS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316. Read research. Supports the broader association between social relationships and survival.
Editorial note: The ASU study did not specifically evaluate reformer Pilates, and its observational findings do not establish a causal longevity benefit. The additional sources support broader exercise and Pilates-related benefits. Source links are supplied for publication review; the full primary studies have not been independently verified in this response.