I tried Infrared Pilates in Manchester

I recently went to my very first Infrared Pilates class in Manchester. Here’s what this new fitness trend is all about and my personal experience.

What is Infrared Pilates?

Infrared Pilates is a growing fitness trend that combines traditional Pilates exercises with infrared (IR) heat technology.

In a typical Infrared Pilates class, the studio is heated using infrared panels, which emit a gentle heat that penetrates the body without warming the air as traditional heating systems do.

This method provides a unique environment for practicing Pilates, adding wellbeing benefits from infrared exposure.

What are the benefits of Infrared Pilates?

Here are the key benefits you can experience from an Infrared Pilates class:

Improved circulation: Infrared heat penetrates deeper into the tissues, which may stimulate blood circulation more effectively than regular exercise environments.
Increased flexibility: The heat from infrared light helps to warm up muscles, tendons and joints, increasing flexibility and allowing for deeper stretches during Pilates exercises. This can make the movements more effective and reduce the risk of injury.
Optimised muscle recovery: Infrared heat is believed to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness, potentially speeding up the recovery process after intense exercise.
Relaxation and stress relief: Infrared heat can have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress reduction. This is especially beneficial in the calming environment of a Pilates studio, helping to enhance the mind-body connection.
Increased endorphin production: The combination of heat and exercise can increase the production of endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones.

Where to find Infrared Pilates classes in Manchester?

At the time of writing this blog post, the only studio offering Infrared Pilates classes in Manchester is The Health Lab, in the Northern Quarter.

This unique studio specialises in a variety of wellness and fitness practices, including reformer Pilates and infrared Pilates.

Opened in 2022, the studio was founded by sisters Kanika and Nikita with the goal of creating an inclusive space where people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels could come together to improve their fitness and wellbeing.

The Health Lab offers a range of classes, including infrared mat Pilates, infrared sound healing, and infrared breathwork, as well as barre and reformer Pilates.

You can get a membership, buy a pack of classes or just book a single one to start with.

How much does it cost?

At the time of writing this post, a 50 minute infrared mat Pilates is £20.

My first Infrared Pilates experience and review

I was in Manchester for a couple days and decided to sign up to an Infrared Pilates class after hearing about The Health Lab. I’m far from being a “pilates girl” but the Infrared made the mat pilates class sound a lot more exciting, and I was curious to give it a go.

The small group size, with only five participants, created a more personalised and focused atmosphere. I much prefer this over huge fitness studios with dozens of participants.

Gabi, the instructor, was incredible - she offered variations throughout the class to cater to different fitness levels, which made the session feel inclusive and adaptable.

We used the Pilates fitness ring quite a lot, which added a little bit of spice, making you engage your core even more.

The infrared heat definitely made me break a sweat, but it also felt like the perfect complement to the workout, creating a warm and cozy bubble.

It was a full-body session, with a strong emphasis on core work. A few days later, I could still feel my abs, a testament to how effective the class was.

By the end of the session, I felt both calm and recharged - a perfect balance.

To keep in mind:

Don’t overdress, it gets warm! A tank top or even just a sport bra would be ideal.
Bring water with you.
Book days in advance, these classes are popular and due to the size of the studio, there’s only a handful of spots.

I enjoyed this class more than I thought I would and I’m looking forward to my next stay in Manchester so I can take part in another one! If this concept existed where I live, I’d absolutely add Infrared Pilates to my weekly fitness routine.