When you think about a surf trip to Morocco, your mind probably goes straight to waves, sunshine, and long days by the ocean. Pilates might not be the first thing that pops up in your head. But this combination can make a real difference to the way you surf.

For our Surf & Pilates Retreat, we sat down with our Pilates instructor Julie. Originally from France, Julie now lives in Morocco, where she has opened her own wellness studio. There, she combines her passion for movement, recovery, and holistic well-being. In this interview, she shares why Pilates is the perfect complement to surfing and what guests can expect from her classes.

Meet Julie

Originally from France, Julie found her second home in Tamraght, where she founded the Day Off Wellness Studio. As a Pilates instructor and massage therapist, she helps people feel stronger, more mobile, and more at home in their bodies.

Her classes focus on strength, balance, mobility, breathing, and developing a deeper understanding of how the body moves. Surfers especially benefit from this approach, as many exercises help build stability, release tension, and improve control on the board.

During our Surf & Pilates Retreats, Julie leads rooftop Pilates sessions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. With her warm and welcoming personality, she creates an atmosphere where complete beginners feel just as comfortable as experienced Pilates enthusiasts.

What guests love most about her classes is the combination of effective, thoughtfully designed workouts and the feeling of truly doing something good for their bodies. This balance between movement, recovery, and well-being is what makes Julie’s teaching so special.

Julie, why should surfers even consider Pilates?

“Surfing already asks a lot from your body especially your shoulders, back, and core. Pilates is a smart way to support that. It helps you to improve your balance, move with more control and precision while understanding how powerful and supporting can be your breathing. It’s not about replacing surf time, just making it feel better and more sustainable.”

What Pilates effects do you notice quickly – especially in relation to surfing?

Most people quickly notice better body awareness and posture. In the water, that can translate into smoother pop-ups, more stability when standing, and less unnecessary tension. It’s not instant transformation, but small adjustments that make a real difference over a few days.

Are there typical “surf problems” that Pilates can help balance out?

Yes, surfing often creates tight shoulders, a stiff lower back, and muscle imbalances from paddling and repeating the same movements. Pilates helps open the chest, strengthen the back and core, and bring the body back into a more balanced state.

How would you describe your sessions? What do you focus on in your teaching?

Focused, accessible, and surf-oriented. We work on core strength, mobility, breathing, and alignment to help you move better both on and off the board. There are two types of classes:

• Aftersurf Pilates: 50% strengthening, 50% stretching- designed to release tension and support recovery.
• Power Pilates: more intense, full-body sessions, with options for every level.

What sets Pilates at Riad Ayour apart is the use of specific props making session more playful and dynamic while helping you to find the right body connections. Some exercises even mimic reformer work, making it easier to understand and feel each movement properly.

What makes Pilates in a surf camp in Morocco different from doing it in a studio at home?

Here, your body is actually “in use” every day, so you can immediately feel how Pilates connects to your surf sessions. It becomes less of a routine workout and more a smart complement to your time in the water. At Riad Ayour, you also practice in a stunning shala with a breathtaking 360° view of the ocean and mountains—something that definitely changes the experience. It’s a more open, relaxed setting that helps you slow down, focus, and make the experience unforgettable.

What do you hope guests take away from your Pilates classes? And why should they definitely try it while they’re here?

The goal is simple: to feel better in your body, but also to challenge yourself. By adding a real wellness dimension to the surf experience, these classes allow you to strengthen your entire body and push your performance further. It’s the perfect opportunity to take the time to learn or deepen a new practice in a heavenly setting. You’ll leave not only with a different perspective on how you move in and out of the water, but also with stronger foundations and healthy habits to take home.

Pilates & Surfing in Morocco – Join Our Retreat

If you want to get the most out of your surf holiday, Pilates is definitely worth trying. That’s exactly why we created our Surf & Pilates Retreat. You’ll enjoy surf coaching and Pilates sessions in one package, without having to organize everything yourself. The combination of waves, movement, recovery, and mindful bodywork creates the perfect balance between an active holiday and well-deserved me-time.

FAQ: Pilates for Surfers

Is Pilates good for surfers?

Yes. Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles, improves balance and mobility, and can help relieve common tension and muscular imbalances caused by surfing.

Does Pilates improve balance on a surfboard?

Definitely. Many Pilates exercises specifically train balance, body control, and stability — all essential skills for surfing.

Do I need Pilates experience to join the retreat?

No. The Pilates sessions are suitable for both complete beginners and more experienced practitioners.

How often are Pilates classes included in the Surf & Pilates Retreat?

The retreat includes three guided Pilates sessions per week, alongside plenty of time for surfing, relaxation, and enjoying Morocco.

Can Pilates help with back pain after surfing?

Pilates can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and core while improving mobility and reducing tension. Many surfers experience less discomfort and greater freedom of movement as a result.

What’s the difference between Aftersurf Pilates and Power Pilates?

Aftersurf Pilates combines strengthening exercises and stretching to support recovery after surfing. Power Pilates is more dynamic and focuses on strength, stability, and full-body conditioning.

Why try Pilates during a surf holiday?

Because you feel the benefits straight away. Your body is active every day, making the connection between Pilates and surfing much easier to understand and experience.