Finding the Best Pilates Classes in Houston with ClassPass

Moving to a new city like Houston was overwhelming, especially when finding the perfect fitness routine. I used to have a solid workout routine in Malaysia. I went to lift weights and finish with a 15-minute treadmill walk in the gym during lunch, then attended a Pilates class after work. I knew I needed to establish a new routine, but I also needed to try out different classes to determine where I’ll commit to a membership. After all, Pilates is expensive here and I needed to be in a place that give me my money’s worth.

Luckily, ClassPass has become my essential guide to explore Houston's vibrant gym and Pilates scene without committing to just one place. I have tried 3 different Pilates studios, and what I thought & felt after each class.

Pilates Classes I tried in Houston with ClassPass

1. Stretch Class at Boost Pilates, The Heights

Address: 3620 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77007

It was on a Tuesday morning, I felt sore from easing back into my workout routine, I found a stretch class at Boost Pilates in The Heights, and immediately booked it. I came in 15 minutes early & I suggest not to do that when you don’t have a car you can wait in. They don’t have a waiting area. I opened the door not knowing it was the studio and the instructor from the current class sent me out right away. I was so happy she wasn’t my instructor because she was unwelcoming. I understand she was teaching a class, and I probably was a distraction, but her actions and the way she talked to me were rudely.

My thoughts on the studio quickly turned around because of my stretch instructor. When the class I stepped on finished, I immediately went inside & introduced myself to her. She was the opposite of the other instructor. She was way nicer, helped me set up my equipment, and checked me in. During the class, she was helping each of the students to stretch further and explained how the movements help the body. Because of her, my experience at this studio went from a 1.5 stars to 4.5 stars.

The stretch class at Boost Pilates in The Heights offers a soothing and welcoming environment that is perfect for those new to Pilates or looking to ease into a fitness routine. I love how this class focused on lengthening muscles and improving posture, providing a gentle yet effective workout that caters to individuals seeking relaxation and improvement in their overall physical wellness.

Now for pricing.. they offer multiple class packs that start at $110 for 5 classes, and valid for 30 days. They also offer an introductory class for $15 and 3 classes at $43. They also offer discounts on auto-pay. Say you enroll to auto-pay, your 5 classes for $110 will be at 5 classes for $105. You can find more of their membership packages & rates here.

2. Basic Class at iM=X Pilates Houston

Address: 554 Waugh Dr, Houston, TX 77019

Next, I visited iM=X Pilates Houston, where I attended a basic class that combines Pilates with strength training. The class was at noon led by Dana Flannigan. Dana was so welcoming the minute I stepped in the studio. This wasn’t my first time in IM=X as I went for a free introductory session a week before, but it was my first time attending a class, and my first time in Dana’s class.

This studio offers a unique twist on traditional Pilates, with Dana ensuring proper form—a combo that my core greatly appreciated. She reminded everyone throughout the class to be more conscious of our screeching shoulder, ie, creepy crawlers when our body starts to tense up due to the exercises. She also made sure everyone in the class can follow along, while tailoring the workouts to each individual’s level in Pilates. It's a must-try for anyone interested in Pilates in Houston.

IM=X offers a free introductory session, where you will learn the basics of Pilates, learn how to use their reformer called the Xercizer, and affordable unlimited classes every month. I haven’t found a Pilates studio in Houston that offers unlimited classes so this is a steal if you decide to be a member. Their 1 month trial is priced at $179, with founding member specials as low as $133 per month if you enroll in a 12-month program and pay in full. You can learn more about IM=X here.

3. Mixed-Level Pilates at Boost Pilates, River Oaks

Address: 3339 W Lamar St #100b, Houston, TX 77019

Returning to Boost Pilates at their River Oaks location, I participated in an all-level class. They do have a much friendlier vibe than their Heights location. I also noticed that most people who attended the class are regulars. They were able to follow the movements with little guidance and little sweat! However, I could say that this class was more advanced than your usual basic class, so despite being an ‘all levels’ class, I felt this to be more challenging than the others. I love that the class was both challenging and supportive. I almost couldn’t do some of the movements, but was assured by the instructor it was ok to take it at my own pace, and the students were focused on working out that they didn’t even notice or bother me while I was struggling & shaking! This standout experience is perfect for Pilates enthusiasts in Houston looking to push their limits while enjoying a fun workout. If I get to choose which Boost Pilates studio in Houston, I’ll go back to— it’s Boost Pilates at River Oaks.

Pricing starts at $15 for an introductory single class offer valid for 7 days. They also offer class packs that start at 5 classes for $110 valid for 30 days or 5 classes for $155 valid for one year. You can explore your membership options at Boost Pilates River Oaks here.

I also tried a Cycling Class!

Energize with Spin at SoulCycle, River Oaks

Address: 2549 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77019

My ClassPass credits started running out, and were not enough to book another reformer studio. I used to love cycling & was addicted to it during the COVID era, so I decided to attend a Feel Good Friday Class at SoulCycle in River Oaks. Although not a Pilates class, the high-energy environment complemented my Pilates sessions, offering a balanced fitness routine.

Props to the ladies who man the booth at SoulCycle because their energy was out of this world. The second I entered the studio, I was greeted in the loudest, perkiest way “Welcome to SoulCycle'‘. They walked me to my locker and lent me their spin shoes, which normally cost $5 for shoe rental. They also helped set up my bike in the studio. All your bikes are numbered, which you can change or reserve via their app. No photos were allowed inside the studio. The instructor, Andres, was energetic, and played the good old songs from the 90’s and 2000’s. It felt like a full circle moment, because pre-COVID, spin studios were booming, pioneered by SoulCycle and I wanted to attend a class in New York City but didn’t have time in my itinerary. SoulCycle got me hooked on cycling during COVID, that I even bought a bike and did classes at home. 6 years later, and I got to attend one. I will surely try their Swiftie Saturday class next time!

They offered me a 2-week unlimited rides for $55, and called me the following day to follow up on the membership. You can check out their schedule & pricing options here.

My Thoughts on ClassPass in Houston

ClassPass offers a wide range of Pilates studios and classes, making it easy to tailor your fitness journey. I got to see multiple studios, and their schedule in the app, and booked according to what works best for me.

• Flexibility and Variety: Ideal for those who love exploring different Pilates and fitness experiences without the commitment of a single gym.

• Introductory Offers: Special promotions make it accessible to explore Pilates in Houston without a hefty initial investment.

Considerations for Pilates Enthusiasts

Thought ClassPass made it easier for me to book classes, some of the studio credits were through the roof & ClassPass kept telling me to upgrade for more ‘exclusive’ studios & unlock other offers. Just be aware of these few considerations when you are in ClassPass.

• Credits Management: Be mindful of your credits, especially with premium Pilates sessions. The credits range from 9-12 credits per class, depending on the class & location. It can sometimes be more expensive than the club membership.

• Advance Reservations: Popular Pilates classes fill up quickly—early booking is essential.

• Credit Planning: Plan your credits wisely as they vary between Pilates and other fitness classes.

Tips for Maximizing Your Houston Pilates Experience

• Strategic Planning: Book your Pilates classes early to ensure availability.

• Time Exploration: Try different class times to find what best fits your schedule and enjoy less crowded sessions.

• Workout Variety: Keep your routine exciting by mixing Pilates with other fitness classes.

Using ClassPass to explore Pilates in Houston has been a useful way to discover the city’s best studios and classes. Each Pilates studio offered its own unique atmosphere and workout style, making my fitness experience more varied, and I got to decide which club to join! ClassPass provides the flexibility to explore Houston's Pilates scene. Ready to start your Pilates journey in Houston? Try ClassPass and find your new favorite Pilates studio today!