Gen Z Is Done With Corporate: Why They’re Choosing Pilates Instead
What happens when a generation raised on technology, social media and a rapidly changing workplace starts questioning the traditional career path?
In this episode of Chat EYT, the Podcast, Jessica sits down with three Gen Z Pilates apprentices — Jacqueline, Kate and Mia — for a candid conversation about why younger people are increasingly turning toward Pilates, wellness and alternative career paths.
And their answers may surprise you.
Kate shares how being laid off from a data analytics job because of AI changed the way she thinks about career security — and why she'd rather be happy than earn a bigger salary. Mia talks about balancing a full-time job with her passion for Pilates and why she believes she has a calling to work in the wellness space. Jacqueline explains why Pilates started as a side hustle while she finishes school, but could eventually become something much bigger.
The conversation goes beyond career choices, too.
Jessica and the apprentices tackle the stereotypes surrounding Gen Z, social skills, phones and the impact of growing up with technology. They talk about whether Gen Z really struggles with face-to-face interaction — and why teaching Pilates might actually require many of the interpersonal skills people assume this generation lacks.
For studio owners, there's especially valuable insight into what the next generation of instructors is looking for.
What makes a studio feel like home? What makes an instructor want to work there? And is money really the most important factor?
The answers: community, trust, flexibility, mentorship, a healthy work environment, supportive owners — and, yes, being treated like an actual human being.
You'll also hear why these young instructors aren't necessarily looking for the prettiest studio. They want a great workout, instructors they connect with, a real sense of community and classes that are worth their time and money.
And because this wouldn't be Chat EYT without getting a little personal, the episode ends with everyone's favorite Pilates exercises — including jackknife, half roll down, criss-cross, teaser and roll-up.
In this episode:
• Why Gen Z is questioning the traditional corporate career path
• How AI and job insecurity are influencing career decisions
• Why happiness may matter more than salary
• Pilates as a side hustle — and potentially a full-time career
• The reality of Gen Z's relationship with technology and social skills
• What younger clients really want from a Pilates studio
• Why community can be more important than aesthetics
• What Gen Z instructors want from studio owners
• Flexibility, mentorship, pay and workplace culture
• Why smaller Pilates teacher-training programs deserve a closer look
• Advice for anyone who's afraid to make a career change
• And, of course, everyone's favorite Pilates exercises
If you're a Pilates teacher, studio owner, wellness professional, Gen Zer questioning your career, or simply curious about where the future of work is headed, this conversation is for you.
Listen, share it with a studio owner or someone questioning their 9-to-5, and let us know: Would you choose happiness over a higher salary?
