The aim of this study is to explore in depth the exercise experiences, motivations, and perceived physical and psychological benefits of women who practice Pilates. The study was conducted using a phenomenological design within the framework of a qualitative research approach. The study group consisted of a total of 17 female participants, selected through criterion sampling, who had been practicing Pilates regularly for at least three months. Data were collected face-to-face a semi-structured interview form and analyzed in accordance with Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis approach.As a result of the analysis, it was determined that the Pilates experience was organized under five main themes: initiation and preference dynamics, contextual mechanisms supporting continuity, perceived physical benefits, perceived psychological and subjective benefits, and transfer to and meaning-making in daily life. The findings indicate that participants initiated Pilates through social networks and external triggers; however, over time, the experience became internalized and transformed into a process of personal meaning-making. While instructor quality, group dynamics, and social support played a decisive role in sustaining continuity, physical benefits emerged as increased strength, flexibility, posture, and energy; and psychological benefits as reduced stress, emotional balance, and improved self-perception.Furthermore, it was observed that the Pilates experience gradually became integrated into participants’ lifestyles and was associated with existential meaning-making. In conclusion, this study reveals that Pilates is not merely a form of physical exercise, but a multidimensional and process-oriented experience. The findings contribute qualitatively to theoretical models explaining the sustainability of exercise behaviors and highlight the importance of instructor quality and the social environment for practitioners.
Pilates, phenomenology, thematic analysis, exercise experience, motivation, lifestyle