The Castro's fitness studio fad continues with the proposal of another megachain pilates studio.
Miami-based fitness chain Jetset Pilates has proposed opening in the Castro at 4071 18th Street, formerly AHF Pharmacy.
Tamara Galinsky founded Jetset Pilates in 2010. With over 80 studio locations worldwide, Jetset Pilates is planning to open another location in San Francisco's Marina District at 1868 Lombard Street.
Jetset Pilates has proposed opening at 4071 18th St., formerly AHF Pharmacy. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
According to Jetset's website, "We focus on precision, flow, and a personalized approach to full-body conditioning. Each session integrates our signature choreography and curated DJ playlists, creating a unique and immersive experience that balances strength, flexibility, and endurance. Our highly skilled instructors guide you through every movement, ensuring a balanced workout that adapts to your needs and keeps you motivated throughout the week."
According to public records, franchisee-owner Chitra Rajasekar filed a change-of-use application with a conditional use permit for formula retail last week. Rajasekar tells Hoodline that Jetset Pilates will open in "early Summer 2027." "Assuming everything goes according to plan," added Rajasekar.
Rajasekar, who's also the Marina location franchise owner, tells Hoodline that construction will start soon and the studio will open in late 2026 or January 2027.
Inside the currently vacant storefront. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Rajasekar says that she and her husband have called the Bay Area home for 25 years and that "fitness has always been a big part of our lives."
After 25 years in technology leadership, Rajasekar said she decided to start her next chapter as an entrepreneur.
Rajasekar has proposed converting the approximately 2,110-square-foot former pharmacy space into a "high-end boutique fitness concept specializing in 50-minute, instructor-led reformer Pilates classes." Construction costs are estimated at $300,000.
San Francisco-based Martinkovic Milford Architects are designing the studio.
Under the city's formula retail rules, businesses with 11 or more locations worldwide must obtain a conditional use permit before opening anywhere in the Castro or Upper Market. A Planning Commission hearing to obtain a conditional use permit has not been set as of this writing.
Images: Martinkovic Milford Architects/SF Planning
Jetset Pilates has been rapidly expanding, having crossed 400 sold franchise locations in July. Jetset is targeting 150 open locations by the end of 2026.
Jetset Pilates' opening in the Castro continues to raise the question of whether the neighborhood has reached 'peak fitness'. However, strong interest in the health and fitness industry shows people are still eager for more workout classes.
When asked about the abundance of Castro fitness studios, Rajasekar said, "That was actually part of what attracted us to the neighborhood. People here clearly prioritize health, fitness, and an active lifestyle, but we believe JETSET brings something different to the mix."
Jetset Pilates would join a handful of Castro area pilates studios, including the recently proposed Club Pilates, along with CoreMVMT, Bright Star Pilates, and [solidcore].
Additionally, Jetset Pilates would join a growing number of fitness studios and gyms that have opened in the area, including Alex Fitness, Body SF, Barry's Bootcamp, Corepower Yoga, Fitness SF, Flagship CrossFit, Live Fit Gym, MX3 Fitness, Pause Studio, SoulCycle, and StretchLab.
Rajasekar said they picked the Castro because they "loved the energy of the Castro and the strong sense of community." Rajasekar says Jetset Pilates plans to become part of the community by partnering with Castro businesses, participating in local events, and creating partnerships that "bring people together around movement and wellness."
"We're very excited about the 18th Street location and about introducing Jetset to the Castro," added Rajasekar.
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