Inside new award-winning studio as it opens new home at Salts Mill

An award-winning Pilates studio has opened in Salts Mill.

AN award-winning Pilates studio has opened in a Grade II listed mill.

Prominence Pilates has launched its second studio at Salts Mill, a World Heritage site in Saltaire.

The new location aims to offer inclusive and professional Pilates classes in a calm and welcoming environment.

Kate McDermott, owner of Prominence Pilates and a former professional dancer, said: "There’s much more to Pilates than just the trending reformer aesthetic, and that’s why we’re committed to teaching with our mantra 'Progression not perfection'.

"After recovering from multiple surgeries, I know personally that Pilates is hugely beneficial for functional fitness alongside strength and wellbeing, something that isn’t always considered.

"All our instructors are highly qualified in Pilates techniques as the baseline of their teaching plus additional courses and workshops so they can cater to professional athletes across a wide range of sports as well as people of all fitness levels."

Prominence Salts studio (Image: Hayley Baxter)

The studio has been carefully designed to preserve the historical character of Salts Mill, while providing a modern, professional space for Pilates practice.

Each class is structured to offer challenge, support and progression, staying true to the health and wellbeing ethos of mill founder Titus Salt.

Prominence Pilates originally opened its first studio in Cleckheaton in 2018.

Ms McDermott’s Pilates journey began more than 25 years ago during her career as a professional dancer.

She trained with the Pilates Institute London and taught across the South of England before returning to West Yorkshire in 2005.

Industry trends show growing interest in Pilates.

According to the 2026 Pilates Industry Survey, 75 per cent of instructors have seen increased demand in the past year.

The Pilates Studios UK directory lists 1,978 verified UK studios, all of which now offer reformer Pilates classes—an evolution from the mat-based focus common outside London a decade ago.

Prominence Pilates mantra (Image: Hayley Baxter)

Prominence Pilates has offered reformer, mat, springboard, and aerial classes since 2018.

The Salts Mill studio offers reformer, mat and springboard classes, as well as spine correctors, private lessons, small group sessions and corporate packages.

The Cleckheaton studio also offers Cadillac, ladder barrel and chair Pilates, reflecting Ms McDermott’s goal of creating a boutique studio centred around traditional Pilates equipment.

Ms McDermott confirmed the studio aims to serve people of all ages and backgrounds.

She said: "Our classes welcome people of all ages and experience, so whether you’re in your 20s and looking for a Reformer class in a beautiful studio, you want to stay fit for your hobbies like golf, or you’re in your 70s and want to prolong your mobility, we’re here for everyone."