Yahoo Lifestyle 'I'm a Health Editor—Here Are My 6 Favorite Beginner Pilates Workouts on YouTube'
As someone who has spent her career covering the health and wellness space, I can officially confirm that Pilates is having a moment. And while some health trends are a little bit iffy, this is one I can get behind.
Why? Studies show that Pilates can improve quality of life by decreasing pain, and it can also help with strength and mobility. Balance, BMI and respiratory rate can also improve with a Pilates practice. Long story short, you'd be hard-pressed to find a health professional who wouldn't recommend Pilates to anyone, regardless of fitness level and age.
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But getting started with Pilates can be intimidating, especially if you associate it with massive reformer machines and people with rock-hard abs. Luckily, there are a handful of free beginner workouts on YouTube to help you get stronger and more flexible in 2025.
Best Free Beginner Pilates Workouts on YouTube
1. A 15-minute glute and leg workout
Pilates is famous for strengthening all parts of the body, including the glutes and legs. This free beginner workout is an excellent intro to the foundations of Pilates, specifically when it comes to strengthening your lower portion.
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2. A short and gentle workout
For a beginner-friendly gentle flow, try this free Pilates workout from Bend Studio Pilates. Whether you've been doing Pilates for years and want something low-key or you're just getting started, all Pilates levels will enjoy this video.
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3. A 23-minute full-body workout
To get a full-body Pilates workout in under 23 minutes, look no further than this free flow from Millie Movements. This beginner workout requires a Pilates ball (but if you don't have one, a rolled-up towel will work just fine), chair and optional weights.
4. A no-equipment beginner Pilates workout
If the prospect of using any kind of Pilates equipment intimidates you, this is the workout for you. Strengthen your whole body and learn the basics with this free Pilates video from Move With Nicole.
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5. A barre and pilates hybrid
Pilates and barre are very similar, in that they focus on strengthening smaller, subtler muscles. This 25-minute barre-pilates hybrid class from FitbyMik does require light dumbbells, so it's not entirely equipment-free, but it's beginner-friendly.
6. A 20-minute ab and leg workout
If your abs and legs are where you want to place your focus this 20-minute workout will get the job done. Perfect for beginners who want to sculpt and lengthen these areas, you'll have no problem following along with this free Pilates workout.
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Related: 10 Best Pilates Reformers to Take Your Workout from the Studio to Home
Sources
Effects of Pilates on health and well-being of women: a systematic review. Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy.
