Pilates has become a phenomenon over the past few years, but unlike other exercise fads that fade away, Pilates is a fitness trend that’s here to stay. By Isla McGraw.
Pilates: from Rochelle Humes to Gwyneth Paltrow, the allure of this strength-training method is universal, so where can Westenders go to get their Pilates fix? Well, there’s nothing quite like The Western Baths Club to help you work up a sweat—and don’t worry if you’re not a member, you can still soak up all the benefits.
Western Baths is an all-inclusive sports and health club catering to all seasons and all ages. Sitting on Cranworth Street, this private members’ club is a bustling hub of activity and a serene haven of peace and tranquillity all under the one roof. In addition to the original swimming pool and Turkish and Russian baths, the club boasts two saunas, two steam rooms, a fully equipped gym, a sports hall, an exercise studio, and a bar and bistro—what more could you want?
Established in 1876, the Baths initially served as a swimming and recreational club, primarily for gentlemen. Today, it is dedicated to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for all, where family, friends, and fellow members can come together and make the most of the wide range of classes and facilities.
Why Pilates?
Pilates has been around since the early 20th century and came to the UK in the 1970s. It’s all about using whole-body movements to boost strength, mobility, and flexibility, focusing on the core muscles for better movement and control. It’s up to you how intense you want the moves to be—you can change up the exercises with different arm and leg moves or resistance equipment. This type of training helps improve how you move in everyday life, keeps your body aligned, and reduces the chance of future aches or injuries.
The Western Baths Club have heard the demand and are here to deliver with the addition of new Pilates classes starting on the 22nd of April 2024. The schedule includes sessions on Tuesday at 7:30am with Nicola, Tuesday at 8:15pm with Nina, Wednesday at 10:30am with Jenn, and Friday at 10:30am with Nicola. These classes are free for members, while non-members can join in for a fee of only £9. Both members and non-members can book their spots via reception, though online booking is available exclusively to members. Bookings can be made up to two weeks in advance.
There’s no need for fancy equipment or a huge amount of space to get your muscles working through Pilates, but the grandeur of the Western Baths studio certainly helps take your mind off the burn. With traditional wood features, full length mirrors and windows overlooking the heart of the West End, as well as fully trained instructors to help perfect your technique, you won’t want your Pilates fix from anywhere else.
The Western Baths Club
12 Cranworth Street
Glasgow
G12 8BZ
0141 5760 294
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