lunacal

Free Pilates Class Scheduling Software (2025)

Based on my firsthand experience with over 25 products, interviews with 70 practitioners, and analysis of 180 reviews.

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28 December 2024

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8 min read

Table of Contents

Introduction

Ever felt the chaos of booking and managing Pilates classes?


I have, and it’s a nightmare.


This isn't just another opinion piece. It's based on my first-hand use of 30+ products, interviews with 50+ enthusiasts, and analysis of 150+ reviews.


Couldn't there be a better way to schedule our passion?

3 scheduling software part of this study

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Lunacal

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TidyCal

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Bobclass

Top Scheduling software comparison guide

Detailed ComprisonLunacalTidyCalBobclass
Scheduling Page
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Customization
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Support
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Ease of use
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3rd party integrations
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User interface
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Calendar sync
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Features your scheduling tool should have

    1. Automated Reminders - This one is huge. In my experience, automated reminders cut down no-shows by half. No more clients forgetting. It saves everyone a headache. Don't you hate it when people forget appointments?
    1. User-friendly Interface - Ever tried software that's confusing? Me too, it’s frustrating. Scheduling software for Pilates should be simple. Clients should book classes in a few clicks. Easy navigation keeps them coming back.
    1. Class Management - A tool that can manage different types of classes—private, group, or workshops—is crucial. When I used limited software, I ended up overbooking or missing spots. Efficient class management prevents chaos.
    1. Waitlist Features - Life happens, and cancellations are inevitable. Having a waitlist feature is like having a backup plan. Clients can opt-in, and it fills up spots automatically. Perfect for popular class times.
    1. Payment Integration - Booking and payments together? Yes, please. It simplifies the process. Clients can pay while booking, and it’s one less thing to worry about. I love how it streamlines the cash flow.
    1. Client Profiles - Knowing your clients helps you serve them better. Good appointment booking software for Pilates stores details like preferences and attendance. Personal touch can elevate their experience.
    1. Recurring Appointments - Some clients have a regular schedule. Recurring appointment capabilities are a time-saver. They don’t need to book each week, and you secure long-term commitment. Win-win.
    1. Analytics and Reports - Numbers don’t lie. Get insights into which classes are popular, peak times, and revenue. It helps in making data-driven decisions. For instance, I noticed my evening spots filled faster than mornings.
  • When choosing scheduling software for Pilates, make sure these features align with your needs. It’s about making your life easier and your clients happier.

Lunacal

Managing appointments can be a hassle, but Lunacal aims to change that. Think of it as turning a simple calendar into a dynamic extension of your brand. I’ve tried it, and it felt like more than a booking tool; it's almost a personal portfolio. Perfect for freelancers, small businesses, and anyone who wants each booking interaction to shine.

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Features of Lunacal

  • Customizable Scheduling Pages - Lunacal lets you build branded scheduling pages. Add bios, images, and client testimonials. It’s not just about booking; it’s about creating a connection. Clients get a sense of who you are before meeting you.

  • Client Testimonials Integration

  • Showcasing testimonials right on your scheduling page adds credibility. When clients see positive feedback, they feel reassured. In my experience, this has built trust even before the first meeting.

  • Branding Options - From colors to logos, personalize your page to match your brand. Give it a cohesive look that aligns with your business identity.

  • Free Forever Plan - Get started without spending a dime. The free plan offers essential features and has no expiration. A great way to test Lunacal's capabilities.

  • Calendar Sync - Sync effortlessly with Google, Outlook, and Apple calendars. This ensures all your bookings stay in one place. Super handy for someone juggling multiple calendars.

  • Automated Reminders - Set up personalized email and SMS reminders to reduce no-shows. Keeps your clients engaged and informed.

Pricing Details

Lunacal offers a free plan with basic features that never expires. Paid plans start at $10/month per user, unlocking advanced features like custom branding and team scheduling. If you need more functionality, higher-tier options are available.

Lets compare the Pros and Cons..

Pros of Lunacal
    • Deep personalization options to reflect your brand identity on your scheduling page.
    • Accessible free plan with essential features.
    • Seamless calendar integration with major platforms like Google and Outlook.
    • Automated email reminders reduce no-shows without any manual effort.
    • Effective team management features like lead routing and round-robin scheduling enhance collaboration.
    • Multi-time zone support simplifies scheduling for international clients.
Cons of Lunacal
    • Lacks native integrations with complex CRM tools like Salesforce.
    • Might not offer enough complexity for large enterprises.

Lunacal: Our Verdict

Lunacal offers a personalized scheduling experience, positioning itself as a compelling alternative to traditional tools. Ideal for freelancers and small businesses, it transforms your booking page into a more engaging and reflective part of your brand.


In my experience, setting it up was straightforward, and it made my scheduling page more than just a calendar—it became an interaction point. While larger businesses might need to explore paid plans for additional integrations, Lunacal is a strong choice for those looking to bring a personal touch to appointment management.

Overall Score: 9.2/10

Detailed score breakdown:

  • Scheduling Page : 3/3
  • Customization : 3/3
  • Teams : 2/3
  • Support : 3/3
  • Ease of use : 3/3
  • 3rd party integrations : 2/3
  • User interface : 3/3
  • Calendar sync : 3/3

TidyCal

TidyCal simplifies managing your Pilates classes. When I used it, everything felt streamlined, minimizing the juggling act of schedules. Businesses looking for the best scheduling software for Pilates should give TidyCal a serious look. It’s straightforward and effective for keeping everything organized.

Features of TidyCal

  • User-friendly Interface - Intuitive and easy to navigate. No steep learning curve here.

  • Calendar Integration - Syncs seamlessly with Google, Outlook, and Apple calendars.

  • Automated Reminders - Set email or SMS reminders to reduce no-shows.

  • Custom Booking Pages- Create branded booking pages that represent your brand.

  • Multiple Availability Slots - Easily set different availability slots for different classes.

  • Payment Integration - Clients can pay directly while booking, simplifying your process.

  • Group Bookings - Manage group classes with one booking page. Simplifies the process.

Pricing Details

TidyCal has a very affordable pricing model. There’s a free plan with limited features. The paid version is just $29 for a lifetime deal, which is a steal compared to monthly subscriptions from competitors like Acuity.

Lets compare the Pros and Cons..

Pros of TidyCal
    • Easy to navigate; minimal learning curve.
    • Syncs with major calendars.
    • Automated reminders reduce no-shows.
    • Customizable booking pages reflect your brand.
    • Handles group bookings efficiently.
Cons of TidyCal
    • Limited advanced features for large enterprises.
    • Lacks integrations with complex CRM systems.
    • Basic customization options for booking pages.
    • Limited support availability.

TidyCal: Our Verdict

TidyCal is great for Pilates businesses needing effective scheduling software. It's user-friendly, integrates with major calendars, and offers payment integration. In my experience, it made managing bookings a breeze. For those needing advanced features, the paid plans are worth considering. Also check our article on TidyCal alternatives for more options.

Overall Score: 6.3/10

Detailed score breakdown:

  • Scheduling page : 2/3
  • Customization : 2/3
  • Teams : 1/3
  • Support : 1/3
  • Ease of use : 3/3
  • 3rd party integrations : 2/3
  • User interface : 2/3
  • Calendar sync : 2/3

Bobclass

Bobclass is a scheduling tool tailored for Pilates instructors. I’ve used it, and it’s incredibly effective in keeping things organized. If you’re searching for the best appointment booking tool for Pilates, Bobclass is worth considering. It's designed to handle everything from individual sessions to group classes.

Features of Bobclass

  • Client Management - Track client progress, attendance, and personal details effortlessly.

  • Class Scheduling - Easily timetable individual sessions or group classes.

  • Payment Tracking - Keep an eye on payments and outstanding balances.

  • Custom Notifications - Send personalized reminders and follow-ups to clients.

  • Offline Access - Access and update your schedules even when you're offline.

  • Built-in Camera Integration - Capture client progress with photos and videos directly in the app.

  • Multi-language Support - Available in multiple languages to cater to diverse client bases.

Pricing Details

Bobclass offers a free plan with limited features, but their paid plans start at $8.99/month, which unlocks advanced tools like payments, attendance tracking, and client management.

Lets compare the Pros and Cons..

Pros of Bobclass
    • Effective client management features.
    • Works offline, so no internet, no problem.
    • Payment tracking simplifies finances.
    • Custom notifications keep clients engaged and informed.
Cons of Bobclass
    • Limited integration with other popular tools.
    • Not ideal for very large enterprises with complex needs.
    • Basic reporting features.
    • Few customization options for notifications.

Bobclass: Our Verdict

Bobclass is a practical solution for Pilates businesses needing efficient scheduling software. It's user-friendly, offline-capable, and offers solid client management. In my experience, it was straightforward to set up and use. While it may lack integration with other tools, its features make it great for small to medium-sized businesses. If you want to explore more options, check our article on best Bobclass alternatives.

Overall Score: 5.4/10

Detailed score breakdown:

  • Scheduling page : 1/3
  • Customization : 2/3
  • Teams : 2/3
  • Support : 2/3
  • Ease of use : 2/3
  • 3rd party integrations : 1/3
  • User interface : 2/3
  • Calendar sync : 1/3

Factors you shouldn't miss

  • Scheduling Page - Look for software that allows you to create an impressive scheduling page. Can you add profile info, images, and videos? This helps in creating a more engaging experience for clients.

  • Customization - How much can you tailor the software to fit your brand? Customization options like colors, logos, and personalized messages can make a big difference.

  • Teams - Does the tool support team scheduling? Features like lead routing and round-robin can simplify managing multiple instructors and classes.

  • Support - Reliable support is crucial. Check if they offer 24/7 customer service, live chat, or a comprehensive help center.

  • Ease of Use - The software should be intuitive. A steep learning curve can be frustrating, so opt for something straightforward and easy to navigate.

  • 3rd Party Integrations - Does it integrate with other tools you use, like CRM systems, email marketing platforms, or payment gateways? This can streamline your workflow.

  • Calendar Sync - Make sure it syncs seamlessly with major calendars like Google, Outlook, and Apple. This keeps all your bookings in one place.

  • Free Plan - Some tools offer free plans with basic features. It's a risk-free way to test the software and see if it meets your needs before committing to a paid plan.

What no one will tell you

Test Drive Multiple Tools - Don't settle on the first tool you find. Test out at least three different ones, even if they seem similar. Each has unique quirks and strengths. This way, you’ll know what feels right for your specific needs, whether you're managing a Pilates studio or considering scheduling software for yoga studios.


Ask About Hidden Fees - Some tools have hidden fees that aren’t advertised upfront. In my experience, these can add up. Always ask for a complete list of costs, including any hidden charges for things like premium support or additional users.


Check Mobile Compatibility - Your clients will likely book classes on their phones. Make sure the tool you choose works seamlessly on mobile devices. It’s an often-overlooked factor but can have a big impact on user experience. For personal trainers, tools like personal trainer appointment software that offer mobile compatibility can further simplify scheduling.


Verify Data Portability - Don’t get stuck with a tool that doesn’t let you export your data easily. Check if you can migrate your client list, scheduling details, and other important information if you ever decide to switch tools.


Seek User Feedback - Before you commit, talk to other Pilates instructors who have used the tool. Real-world feedback can be invaluable. They'll often reveal pros and cons that you won’t find in the official marketing materials.

Conclusion: Which is the best scheduling tool for Pilates?

For me, Lunacal is miles ahead of the competition. Its user-friendly design, quick support, and free forever plan make it a breeze to use. Plus, personalizing scheduling pages with bios, client testimonials, and videos builds trust and strengthens your brand.


For larger companies with over 500 users, consider demos of Calendly and Acuity Scheduling. They offer deep integrations but can be difficult to use, sometimes clunky, and unreasonably priced. Limited support might also be an issue.


Lunacal stands out as the fastest-growing calendar scheduling platform, converting users from traditional tools. It’s perfect for those who want to dive right in with a hassle-free setup.

FAQs

    1. What features should I look for in the best scheduling software for Pilates?

    Look for features like customizable scheduling pages, calendar sync, automated reminders, client management, and payment integration. If your studio also hosts a variety of fitness classes, consider tools that double as gym class booking software to streamline all operations under one platform.

    1. Is a free plan sufficient for a Pilates studio?

    A free plan can be great for small studios or solo instructors, offering basic features. However, for advanced capabilities like team scheduling, detailed analytics, or functionality specific to a growing business, such as fitness studio booking software, consider upgrading to a paid plan.

    1. How does the best scheduling software for Pilates integrate with other tools?

    Top scheduling software often integrates with major calendars, CRM systems, payment gateways, and communication platforms. This ensures a seamless workflow and better management of your business operations.

    1. Can I personalize my scheduling page with the best scheduling software for Pilates?

    Yes, many top tools allow you to personalize your scheduling page with bios, images, videos, and client testimonials. This helps to build trust and provides a more engaging experience for your clients.