Pilates Is What Your Summer Body Needs—And It’s Giving Everything It Was Supposed to Give

Listen, I don’t know who needs to hear this, but that summer body you keep talking about? It’s not going to build itself. And before you start talking about gym trauma (because, same), let’s have a moment for Pilates—the silent killer of workouts. It’s cute in theory, but baby, it will humble you real quick.

At first glance, Pilates looks like a gentle stretch session for aesthetically pleasing people who drink oat milk and take hot girl walks. But let me tell you, that Reformer machine? It’s a trap. A beautifully designed, muscle-sculpting, why-is-my-core-shaking-like-this type of trap. And honestly, it’s exactly what you need.

The Setup: A Trap, But Make It Chic

You walk into a Pilates class thinking it’s about to be light work. The studio is giving spa vibes, everybody’s in their neutral-toned matching sets, and the instructor is greeting you with a voice so soothing, you start feeling safe. And then… class starts. Suddenly, you’re in a plank for way too long, your legs are shaking like you just found out your situationship has a whole other relationship, and your core is crying out for help. But the instructor? She’s just smiling, talking about “tiny pulses” and “activating your deep core muscles.” Sis, my deep core muscles are screaming.

The Results: Summer Body, But Make It Sustainable

Here’s the thing—Pilates doesn’t just snatch you up for summer; it builds the kind of strength that makes you feel good. Like, posture-on-10, abs-peeking-through-your-crop-top, walking-through-life-with-your-head-high good. It’s not about chasing a number on the scale; it’s about that realigned, toned, and slightly smug feeling you get when you realize you’re standing taller in photos. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want that?

The Culture Shift: Hot Girls Do Pilates

If you’ve been paying attention, you know the girls that get it have already gotten into Pilates. From Lori Harvey to Megan Thee Stallion, the streets are talking. And listen, this is an equal-opportunity glow-up. Whether you’re pulling up for some mind-body connection, an extra-firm booty, or just trying to stop sounding like a wounded animal every time you get off the couch—Pilates is here for you.

Are You Ready to Be That Girl?

It’s officially March 2025—which means summer is knocking, sis. So, do you need Pilates? Absolutely. It’s going to hurt. You’re going to wonder why you paid someone to put you in a chokehold. But when you catch your reflection and see the muscle definition creeping in? When you realize your back no longer hurts from hunching over your laptop? When you’re giving main-character energy all summer? Yeah, you’ll thank yourself.

So go ahead, book that class, grab your mat, and let’s get into it. Your summer body—and your year-round flex—is waiting.

And while everybody is used to the big brands like Solidcore, let’s switch it up and support some Black-owned Pilates studios in the DMV. Here are a few spots to check out:

• DC Pilates
• sculp’d
• Briq Haus

Go book that class and get this glow-up the right way!