Pilates music should create an atmosphere that enhances focus, movement flow, and relaxation while maintaining an energizing yet calming presence.

Different types of Pilates exercises benefit from different musical styles.

However, choosing the music that fits well with a specific Pilates exercise can be tricky.

In this post we will look at some common types of Pilates exercises and discuss what background music works best in each case.

Keep reading and make sure to listen to music examples.

Hi, I’m Mik, one of TunePocket music composers. Need help choosing the best music for Pilates videos or vlogs? In this post, we’ll explore the best music choices for different types of Pilates workouts.

I went though our growing catalog of professional royalty free music and picked some great examples.

This post will be of most benefit to fitness content creators and promoters who make videos or ads related to Pilates, yoga, and general fitness / wellness.

do i need music in my pilates class?

While music in a Pilates class is not essential but can enhance the experience by supporting focus, movement flow, and relaxation.

For some, a quiet environment allows for deeper concentration on breathwork and precise movements, making music unnecessary.

For others, the right background music helps to set the pace, maintain rhythm, and create a calming or energizing atmosphere depending on the workout intensity.

Related: Listen to breath work counters examples.

The decision to use music depends on the class style and personal preference.

Restorative or clinical Pilates may benefit from silence or very soft ambient sounds, while dynamic sessions like power Pilates often incorporate rhythmic music to sustain energy.

Ultimately, music should complement the practice without distracting from body awareness and controlled movement.

Background music for different types of Pilates classes and exercises

Let’s see what music works best for different types of Pilates:

Mat Pilates (Classic Flow & Precision)

This style focuses on controlled movements and breathwork, best suited to ambient, neo-classical, and soft electronica.

Music should be gentle, flowing, and minimalistic, around 60–90 BPM, to support concentration without distraction.

Reformer Pilates (Strength & Stability)

Resistance-based exercises require steady yet smooth music, such as deep house, chillout, and lo-fi.

A moderate tempo (80–100 BPM) helps maintain rhythm and fluidity without overwhelming the practice.

Power Pilates (Dynamic & Fast-Paced)

More intense and fast-paced, this style benefits from organic house, downtempo electronica, and chillwave.

Tracks should be energizing yet non-intrusive, typically 90–110 BPM, to sustain motivation and movement precision.

Stretching & Cooldown (Recovery & Relaxation)

Soft, spacious sounds like ambient, spa music, and new age help promote deep breathing and relaxation.

The tempo should be slow (50–70 BPM), creating a calming and restorative atmosphere.

Fusion Pilates (Pilates + Yoga or Barre)

A mix of movement styles benefits from ethereal pop, acoustic chill, and world fusion.

A smooth, uplifting 75–95 BPM range supports seamless transitions while maintaining engagement.

Clinical / Physiotherapy Pilates (Rehabilitation & Injury Recovery)

Designed for gentle recovery, this style pairs well with neo-classical, soft acoustic, and healing sounds.

The music should be soothing and unobtrusive, with a 50–70 BPM range to encourage relaxation and mindful movement.

HIIT Pilates (High-Intensity + Pilates)

A fusion of Pilates and high-intensity training needs deep house, upbeat downtempo, and melodic techno.

Music should be rhythmic and motivating, in the 110–130 BPM range, to support bursts of movement and energy.

Pre / Postnatal Pilates (Gentle Core Strength & Stability)

Nurturing and supportive, this style works best with soft acoustic, lullaby-inspired, and downtempo sounds.

Music should be gentle and flowing, at 60–80 BPM, to encourage relaxation and connection.

Chair Pilates (Seated or Supported Pilates)

Often used for seniors or those with mobility limitations, this style benefits from lounge jazz, acoustic chill, and soft classical.

The tempo should be steady and light (70–90 BPM) to provide structure while remaining calming.

What are some alternatives to using background music during Pilates classes?

Instead of background music, Pilates classes can incorporate breathwork counters to guide rhythm and movement.

Soft chimes can be an excellent alternative to background music in Pilates classes, providing gentle auditory cues without distraction.

The chimes can be used to signal breath transitions, movement changes, or pacing, helping practitioners stay in rhythm.

Using them at regular intervals or during key moments in the session can create a calming, structured experience.

Here are a couple of examples:

Questions or comments?

Hope this post will help you to find the best music for your presentation!

Any music featured in this post or on TunePocket Web site can be licensed for presentations. You can also download free MP3 previews and safely try any of our music in your slideshow before you purchase the license.

See available licenses and pricing

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to post it below in the comments. I’ll be happy to answer.

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