Pilates + Pickleball = Your New Favorite Duo

By Donna Rosen, Owner and Instructor, Bolder Pilates

Pickleball is blowing up—and for good reason. It’s fast, fun, social, and gives you a solid workout without feeling like a full-on Olympic event (unless you’re really competitive, in which case… game on).

If you’re already playing or thinking about trying it, here’s a little secret weapon you might not have considered: Pilates.

Why Pilates? Because those quick pivots, lunges, and rapid changes of direction on the court put your hips, core, shoulders, and balance to the test. Without proper support and alignment, all that action can lead to tight hamstrings, achy shoulders, and knees begging for a break.

Enter Pilates. This practice builds core stability and joint integrity that help protect you during those swift moves. It improves your balance so you don’t faceplant chasing that tricky shot. It lengthens tight muscles and releases tension that can cause discomfort or injury.

Plus, Pilates sharpens your body awareness, making your movements smoother and reactions faster. Translation: better game, fewer injuries, and more fun.

Whether you’re a pickleball pro or just grabbing a paddle for the first time, adding Pilates into your routine will help you play harder, recover faster, and keep coming back for more.

So go ahead—hit the court, then hit the Reformer. Your body (and your game) will thank you.