How do I fill empty reformer pilates classes?

Start with the empty slots

Look at your schedule and identify the classes that run below half capacity. Mid-morning, early afternoon and late-evening slots are common gaps. Instead of promoting “pilates classes” in general, promote those specific times to the people most likely to attend them — mothers after school drop-off, remote workers at lunchtime, or office goers after 7 pm.

Five ways to fill classes

1. An intro offer: two or three classes at a special price lowers the risk of trying reformer pilates for the first time.
2. Local ads: Instagram and Meta ads within a few kilometres of the studio, showing the reformer in action and the instructor.
3. Google Maps: a complete profile with photos, class types, prices and steady reviews, so you appear for “reformer pilates near me”.
4. Referrals: reward members with a free class for every friend who books an intro pack.
5. Local partnerships: physiotherapists, running clubs, corporate wellness teams and nearby cafés.

Respond fast

Many studio enquiries come through Instagram DMs and WhatsApp. Reply within minutes during the day with class times and a booking link. Slow replies are one of the biggest reasons intro offers go unused.

Convert intro clients quickly

• Greet first-timers personally and set up their reformer.
• Follow up after the first class to ask how it felt.
• Offer a membership upgrade before the intro pack runs out, with the intro cost credited.

Measure weekly

Track class fill rate by time slot, intro packs sold, and intro-to-member conversion. These three numbers show exactly where to focus next.

Give it time

A new studio usually needs a few months of consistent promotion to build a steady base. Keep the offer and ads running long enough to learn what works before changing everything.