Let’s get physical: These are the best fitness classes (and studios) in Metro Manila

1 hour to 1.5 hours

Mat classes like yoga and mat pilates are accessible low-impact workouts that require minimal equipment—however, the two are very different.

The discipline of yoga has a rich history rooted in spirituality. While yoga is indeed physically challenging, its ultimate aim is to find a state of liberation and inner peace through movement. The practice involves many holds and/or flowing through these positions at a much slower pace than pilates, and will often incorporate set flows and breathing patterns throughout the class. Many yoga poses are also thought to have different health benefits, both mental and physical. In addition, there are special “bikram” yoga classes held in a heated room, which are said to boast many additional health benefits.

Meanwhile, pilates follows a quicker pace, and the aim is to get your muscles burning through fast exercises in high repetitions, effectively toning the target areas. Like yoga, pilates may also challenge balance and flexibility, but much of the focus is on strengthening the body, particularly the core. Some pilates classes may also incorporate a ball, blocks, light weights, and other props, though it remains largely a bodyweight exercise.

Many studios in Metro Manila offer both yoga and pilates classes, with various schedules week by week—some even have meditation and sound healing sessions!

Mat class studios in Metro Manila

• Soulspace – Verve Tower 1 (BGC)
• The Breathing Room PH – Icon Plaza (BGC)
• Sun Space – Prince Tower (Salcedo Village, Makati)
• Torre Yoga and Wellness – Cityland 10 Tower 1 (Salcedo Village, Makati)
• Nada Concepts (yoga, sound baths) – Six Axis Center (Poblacion, Makati City)
• Bikram Yoga Makati (yoga) – Aguirre Building (Salcedo Village, Makati)
• Treehouse Yoga (yoga) – RGM Center (BF Homes, Parañaque)
• Nude Floor (yoga) – Ayala Malls Circuit (Makati)
• Open Mat (yoga) – Country Space 1 (Salcedo Village, Makati)
• Saddle Row (yoga) – Power Plant Mall (Rockwell, Makati)

More from Tatler: 5 silent retreats in Hong Kong where you can practise meditation and mindfulness