San Antonio might be one of America’s least fit cities, but a new wave of studios may help us rise through the ranks. BODYBAR Pilates will make its Alamo City debut with three area locations in Alamo Heights, La Cantera, and Stone Oak.The Fort Worth-based franchise focuses on reformer Pilates. Tho se of us who huff and puff climbing steps might not be familiar with the name, but are no doubt familiar with the machine — a sliding sled contraption with various springs, pulleys, and ropes. Fans value the method for improving posture and building full-body strength.The studios will also use EXO Chairs, stool-sized apparatuses based on the original ‘20s Wunda Chair invented by Joseph Pilates. According to a release, classes will be available for all fitness levels.Laurie and Eric Falcon, a nurse practitioner and retired Department of Defense firefighter, will operate the local franchises. The pair hope to eventually draft their son and daughter into the business as the studios grow.Although San Antonio still struggles with an obesity epidemic, a growing number of fitness companies are banking on the city for growth. Dallas-based EōS Fitness made its local debut in June, and boutique studios like King William’s Lagree Onda are increasingly popping up to serve neighborhood exercise needs.The new options may be contributing to more active lifestyles. The American College of Sports Medicine’s recent American Fitness Index ranked San Antonio 84th out of 100 U.S. cities. That may not seem like a flex, but last year we were ranked No. 90 — indicating the city has made strides in encouraging an overall culture of health.BODYBAR has not announced the addresses of its San Antonio outposts but says the city may feel the burn as early as spring 2027. And it has faith locals will embrace the concept despite the statistics. ...read more read less