IDEA Health & Fitness Association released results from its 2008 Fitness Programs & Equipment Survey, which polled 214 of its health club owner and exercise program director members. Pilates is offered by a whooping 68 percent of the respondents. Here are some other Pilates-centric findings:

• Average number of mind-body classes per week: 10

• Pilates is offered in 87 percent of YMCAs/YWCAs/JCCs, 72 percent of multipurpose health clubs and 26 percent of personal training gyms.

• 60 percent of those who offer Gyrotonic® or Gyrokinesis® say the trend for them will grow, but only 2 percent of those surveyed offer it.

Here are some broader fitness trends from the survey that could apply to Pilates studios:

• Small group personal training (3-5 people) increased from 44 to 58 percent from last year. (Duets and trios, anyone?)

• Fitness managers see social and community activities, like running clubs and even group cruises, as playing a role in client retention. Sixty-seven percent expect these groups to grow. (Pilates in the park, Pilates at sea—the opportunities are endless.)

• Nutrition coaching and assessment is on the rise. (Partner up with RDs in your area.)

The entire report can be found in the July/Aug issue of IDEA Fitness Journal.