Choose music that supports the intended pace, permits clear cueing and complies with public-performance licensing.
Define the purpose
Build a logical sequence
Protect timing
Never rush the close simply because the plan was overfilled.
Cue with scope
Review the real class
Reuse strong structures thoughtfully instead of rebuilding from zero.
Bodi Boutique resources
Explore Bodi Boutique instructor resources and the wider For Instructors hub.
Frequently asked questions
The practical conclusion
Choose music that supports the intended pace, permits clear cueing and complies with public-performance licensing. Use the guidance above to make a measured choice and reassess when your circumstances change.
Start with the teaching environment
Music should sit beneath instruction, not compete with it. Test the playlist in the actual room, including the instructor’s usual position and the furthest participant. A track that sounds gentle through headphones can have a dominant bass line or distracting vocal at studio volume.
Build an intentional playlist arc
- Arrival: calm, welcoming tracks that leave space for conversation.
- Warm-up: a steady pulse without forcing premature speed.
- Main work: consistent energy matched to the class objective.
- Transitions: avoid sudden changes that rush equipment or position changes.
- Close: reduce energy without turning the final minutes into an unrelated meditation.
Use BPM as a guide, not a rule
Beats per minute can help organise repeated movement, but Pilates exercises differ in range, load and complexity. Clients may need to move across several beats or independently of the music. If someone sacrifices control to stay “on beat”, give permission to use their own pace.
Check lyrics and accessibility
Review explicit language, themes and sudden volume changes. Consider clients who are noise-sensitive or find strong rhythm overwhelming. A lower-volume option and clear visual demonstrations help the class remain accessible without removing personality from the playlist.
Music licensing in Australia
A personal streaming subscription does not automatically grant permission to play music commercially. Instructors and studios should check current public-performance licensing requirements, venue responsibilities and platform terms. Keep documentation rather than assuming another instructor or facility has covered your use.
Explore the connected planning resources through Bodi Boutique’s For Instructors page.
Frequently asked playlist questions
Can a personal Spotify account be used in class?
Personal subscription terms and public-performance licensing are separate issues. Check the platform terms and current Australian licensing requirements for the business setting.
What if clients dislike the music?
Invite respectful feedback, keep volume moderate and avoid highly divisive content. The playlist supports the service; it is not the service itself.
Related Bodi Boutique guidance
About the author
Jazz Collier is the founder of Bodi Boutique and a fitness and beauty professional. She completed Certificate III qualifications in Fitness and Beauty in 2016 and has Pilates training through Online Fitness Education, Studio Pilates and Core Collab.
Research and further reading
Primary supporting guidance or related Bodi Boutique resource
