Why are Pilates Instructors Choosing the Wunda Chair Over Cadillac/Tower Training ?

 

There is no argument that Pilates apparatus studios are evolving, and with this; education and practice also evolves.  Traditionally, in fact right up to 2022, once instructors completed their foundational training in Matwork and Reformer Pilates, the next step was most popularly to expand their expertise by taking a Tower or Cadillac instructor training course.  However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards Wunda Chair training as the preferred extension of an instructor’s skill set.  This change is driven by several factors related to the practicality, versatility, and market demands of Pilates practice today.

The Foundations: Matwork and Reformer Pilates

Matwork remains the cornerstone of Pilates education, providing the essential principles and techniques that form the basis of all Pilates practice.  Achieving a Level 3 qualification (or its national equivalent) in Matwork in the UK is a critical first step for any aspiring instructor.  Reformer training naturally follows, as this piece of equipment is integral to most studio practices.  The growth of Pilates studios in 2024 continues to be driven largely by the demand for Reformer classes, which are popular for their ability to deliver dynamic, full-body workouts that appeal to a wide range of clients so this is where the jobs are around the country.

The Shift to Wunda Chair Training

Once instructors have solidified their expertise in Matwork and Reformer, the traditional path often led to Cadillac or Tower training.  This was seen as opening a more clinical post rehab market often older in demographic than the market for Matwork or Reformer.  However, several key factors are now driving more instructors to choose the Wunda Chair instead:

Cost and Accessibility:

Affordability

The Wunda Chair is significantly more affordable than a Cadillac or wall-mounted Tower, often costing around one-third of the price of a Cadillac.  This lower cost makes it a more accessible option for both individual instructors looking to expand their offerings and studio owners aiming to equip their spaces without substantial financial investment.

Space Efficiency

The Wunda Chair’s compact size is another major advantage.  Unlike the Cadillac, which requires a large dedicated space, the Wunda Chair can be easily integrated into existing studio setups without requiring significant reconfiguration.  This is particularly beneficial for smaller studios or those looking to maximise their use of space.  It is interesting to note that the USA’s largest Pilates studio Franchise, Club Pilates chooses the Wunda Chair over the Tower or Cadillac in their Studio offering.

Versatility and Client Appeal

The Wunda Chair is exceptionally versatile, offering a wide range of exercises that cater to different client needs - from rehabilitation and injury prevention to athletic conditioning.  Its ability to deliver challenging, functional workouts in a compact format makes it an attractive option for both instructors and clients.

Group and Individual Training

The Wunda Chair is equally effective in one-on-one sessions and group classes. In a group setting, its small footprint allows for larger class sizes, especially when classes are split between different apparatuses, such as Reformers and Wunda Chairs.  This flexibility enhances the appeal of Wunda Chair training in a studio environment.

Market Trends and Client Demands

Growing Studio Demand

The current trend in studio growth is heavily focused on Reformer Pilates, driven by client demand for dynamic and effective workouts.  As studios expand and also see competition growing in Reformer based Group exercise, the need for versatile, space-efficient equipment like the Wunda Chair becomes a means of diversifying and differentiating the studio offering.

Instructors and studios who can offer a broader range of equipment-based classes, including those using the Wunda Chair, are better positioned to meet the diverse needs of their clients​ and also self employed instructors can command more sub contract work and higher rates of pay.

Functional Fitness Focus

The Wunda Chair’s emphasis on functional movements that mimic everyday activities resonates with the current fitness trend towards functional training.  This makes it a popular choice among clients who are looking to improve their overall physical health and functional capabilities, further driving demand for Wunda Chair training among instructors.

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Conclusion

The shift towards Wunda Chair training among Pilates instructors reflects broader trends in the Pilates industry.  As studios continue to expand and evolve, the demand to differentiate themselves from competitors and to offer versatile, cost-effective, and space-efficient equipment like the Wunda Chair is likely to grow.  This piece of apparatus not only meets the practical needs of modern studios but also offers instructors the opportunity to diversify their skills and appeal to a wider range of clients.

For instructors looking to stay ahead in the fast changing and dynamic Pilates market, adding Wunda Chair training to their repertoire is a strategic move.  Whether you're enhancing your existing studio offerings or looking to expand your personal skill set, the Wunda Chair offers a compelling combination of affordability, versatility, and client appeal that is hard to match.

If you are interested in exploring this further, Mbodies Training Academy offers specialised Hybrid CPD Instructor training courses in Wunda Chair Pilates.  These courses are designed to fit around your busy schedule, with flexible learning options that include distance learning modules and practical follow-ups through one-on-one or small group sessions.  Additionally, for those looking to study from home, short-term equipment hire or purchase options are available through our founder, Chris Onslow (Pilates Business Consultant). This approach ensures you can easily and at your own pace, integrate Wunda Chair expertise into your practice, enhancing your ability to meet the growing demands of the Pilates market.

Author:  Chris Onslow - Pilates Consultant

Chris Onslow, has run Pilates focussed businesses since 1998.  He and his team specialise in supporting Pilates entrepreneurs and business owners.  With a rich history of owning and running successful Pilates studios in the UK, and supporting others in Europe and the Middle East, Chris has broad expertise in maximising profitability and optimising operational efficiency.  His agency provides top-tier advice on selecting new, pre-owned, and hireable Pilates equipment from renowned brands such as Align-Pilates, Balanced Body or Stott-Pilates/Merrithew.  As the founder of Mbodies Training Academy, Chris continues to revolutionise Pilates education, offering premier online and hybrid CPD and qualification courses for Pilates apparatus instruction and special population CPD.  Discover more about how Chris can support your Pilates Business or home exercise choices at www.pilates-consultant.co.uk