Men & Masculinity in Pilates

Why are so many men hesitant to try Pilates, and what happens when they finally do? Join Joy and Reed Flanagan, ISSA Master Trainer and Founder of Atlantis Fitness & Pilates, for a candid conversation about Pilates for men, masculinity, and movement culture.

Reed explores some of the cultural assumptions that can make men apprehensive about stepping into a Pilates studio, from discomfort with entering a traditionally woman-dominated space to the challenge of being a beginner at something new. He shares practical ways Pilates instructors can make classes more approachable for male clients, including introducing concepts such as mindfulness, body awareness, flexibility, and functional mobility using language that resonates.

They break down the benefits of Pilates for weightlifting and bodybuilding. Reed explains how incorporating Pilates workouts can complement traditional strength training by improving core stabilization for heavy squats and lifts, movement control, joint mobility, and access to smaller or more specific muscle groups.

Reed also discusses why qualities like flexibility and mobility are often undervalued in traditional men’s fitness culture, and why becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable (or simply not being “good” at something right away) can be an important part of personal growth. From training young athletes to working with older adults, Reed explains why, across ages, fundamental functional movement needs may be more alike than they are different.

This episode ultimately looks beyond exercise to a broader question: What does healthy masculinity look like? Reed offers his perspective on embracing strength, confidence, self-awareness, and openness.

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