Can I use a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) for pilates sessions? (Updated for 2025)

You've probably heard of a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover medical expenses, but did you know there's an account that can help you pay for wellness activities like gym memberships, yoga classes, and even Pilates sessions?

It's called a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA), and it's becoming an increasingly popular employee benefit.

In this article, we'll explain what an LSA is, how it works, and whether you can use it to cover the cost of your Pilates sessions.

What is a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA)?

A Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) is an employer-funded, post-tax account designed to support employees' overall well-being. Unlike HSAs and FSAs, which are limited to medical expenses, LSAs can cover a wide range of health and wellness activities.

Employers determine which expenses are eligible for reimbursement, how much they'll contribute to each employee's account, and other plan details like rollover policies and eligibility requirements. This flexibility allows companies to tailor their LSA program to their unique workforce and budget.

One of the main advantages of LSAs is that they offer employees more choice and personalization compared to traditional one-size-fits-all benefits packages. With an LSA, you can choose to spend your funds on the activities that contribute most to your physical, mental, and emotional health.

Examples of LSA-eligible expenses

So, what types of expenses can you cover with an LSA? While every employer's plan is different, here are some common categories and examples of eligible expenses:

• Fitness: Gym memberships, fitness classes (e.g., yoga, Pilates, spinning), personal training sessions, home exercise equipment
• Nutrition: Nutritional counseling, weight loss programs, healthy cooking classes, meal delivery services
• Stress reduction: Meditation apps, massage therapy, acupuncture, art therapy, gardening supplies
• Financial wellness: Financial planning services, budgeting apps, educational workshops
• Professional development: Career coaching, leadership training, conference registration fees, language learning software
• Family care: Child care, elder care, pet care, adoption assistance, fertility treatments

Eligibility for Pilates Under LSAs

Employer-Defined Coverage

Many LSA plans explicitly list Pilates as an eligible expense. Employers have full discretion over which categories they want to include in their LSA program. Some common examples of how Pilates is covered include:

• Fitness classes: Yoga, Pilates
• Physical wellness categories: Pilates
• Fitness lessons and trainers: Pilates

No Medical Documentation Required

Unlike HSAs and FSAs, LSAs do not require a Letter of Medical Necessity (LOMN) from a healthcare provider. This is because LSAs are not tax-advantaged accounts regulated by the IRS[1][2].

Eligibility for Pilates sessions depends solely on your employer's specific LSA plan design. If Pilates is included as an eligible expense, you can use your LSA funds without submitting any additional medical documentation[1][2].

To check if your company's LSA covers Pilates, review your benefits documentation or contact your HR department. Once you confirm eligibility, simply pay for your Pilates sessions and submit a receipt through your LSA administrator's portal or mobile app for reimbursement[4][5].

Keep in mind that while LSAs offer more flexibility than HSAs/FSAs, they are still subject to your employer's specific policies regarding contribution amounts, rollover rules, and eligible expenses. Familiarizing yourself with your company's LSA guidelines will help you maximize this valuable wellness benefit.

How to Use an LSA for Pilates

Using your LSA for Pilates sessions is a straightforward process. First, confirm that your employer's plan covers fitness classes or physical wellness activities. You can find this information in your benefits documentation or by contacting your HR representative.

Once you've verified eligibility, simply pay for your Pilates sessions out-of-pocket at any qualifying studio, gym, or virtual platform. Keep your receipts, as you'll need them to submit a claim for reimbursement.

To get reimbursed, log into your LSA portal or mobile app and follow the instructions for submitting a claim. Upload a photo or scan of your receipt, select the appropriate expense category, and enter the required details such as date, amount, and provider name. Your LSA administrator will review the claim and, if approved, issue reimbursement directly to you.

LSAs typically cover a wide range of Pilates-related costs, including in-person sessions at studios or gyms, virtual classes through online platforms, and even equipment purchases like mats or reformers. However, it's always a good idea to double-check your specific plan's guidelines to ensure your expenses are eligible.

By taking advantage of your LSA for Pilates, you can prioritize your physical health and well-being without the added financial stress. This employer-provided benefit empowers you to invest in activities that promote strength, flexibility, and overall wellness, ultimately contributing to a more balanced and productive lifestyle.

Comparison to HSAs/FSAs

LSAs offer a more flexible approach to covering Pilates sessions compared to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). With an LSA, you can typically use your funds for any Pilates class or program, regardless of whether it's medically necessary.

In contrast, HSAs and FSAs require a Letter of Medical Necessity from a doctor or healthcare provider stating that the Pilates sessions are a treatment for a specific medical condition, such as back pain or injury rehabilitation. Without this documentation, you cannot use HSA/FSA funds for Pilates.

LSAs give employers the freedom to approve a wide range of fitness and wellness expenses, even if they aren't directly related to a medical need. This flexibility allows you to proactively invest in your health and well-being through activities like Pilates, rather than waiting until a medical issue arises.

For example, your employer may recognize the preventative health benefits of Pilates, such as improved posture, core strength, and stress reduction, and choose to include it as an eligible LSA expense. With an HSA/FSA, these general wellness benefits wouldn't qualify for reimbursement without a direct medical justification.

Ultimately, LSAs provide a more inclusive and accessible way for you to incorporate Pilates into your wellness routine, without the added hurdle of obtaining a doctor's note or proving medical necessity.

Employer Trends in Pilates Coverage

As more companies recognize the value of supporting employees' physical and mental well-being, Pilates has become an increasingly popular addition to Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) programs. Many employers now include Pilates classes and equipment as eligible expenses, acknowledging the holistic benefits of this low-impact, mind-body exercise.

When designing their LSA plans, companies often pair Pilates with other fitness-related expenses to create a comprehensive wellness package. Common offerings that complement Pilates include gym memberships, allowing you to access a variety of exercise equipment and group classes; personal training sessions, which can help you develop a customized Pilates routine tailored to your goals and fitness level; and fitness trackers like the Apple Watch, enabling you to monitor your progress and stay motivated.

By covering a diverse range of fitness activities, employers aim to empower you to find the right combination of exercises that resonates with your individual needs and preferences. Whether you thrive in a group Pilates class setting, prefer one-on-one instruction, or enjoy tracking your workouts with wearable technology, an LSA that includes Pilates alongside other wellness options gives you the flexibility to create a well-rounded fitness regimen.

As LSA plans continue to evolve and expand, it's clear that employers are prioritizing a holistic approach to employee well-being. The growing trend of including Pilates coverage demonstrates a commitment to supporting not only your physical health but also your mental and emotional wellness.

What are the benefits of using an LSA for Pilates?

Using a Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) to cover your Pilates sessions offers a range of physical and mental health benefits. Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout that focuses on strengthening your core muscles, improving posture, and increasing flexibility. Regular practice can help alleviate back pain, prevent injuries, and enhance overall physical performance.

Beyond the physical benefits, Pilates emphasizes the mind-body connection, promoting mindfulness and relaxation. The controlled breathing and precise movements can reduce stress, improve concentration, and boost your mood. By using your LSA for Pilates, you can prioritize your mental well-being alongside your physical health.

One of the key advantages of LSAs is the ability to personalize your wellness routine. Unlike traditional benefits packages that offer limited options, an LSA empowers you to choose activities that resonate with your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prefer group classes, private sessions, or virtual instruction, you can use your LSA funds to access the Pilates experience that works best for you.

It's important to note that while LSA funds are considered taxable income, they still provide a dedicated resource for investing in your well-being. By allocating pre-designated funds for wellness expenses like Pilates, you can prioritize self-care without the added financial stress of dipping into your personal budget.

How can I maximize my LSA for Pilates and other eligible expenses?

To get the most out of your Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) for Pilates and other wellness activities, start by thoroughly reviewing your employer's LSA policy. Familiarize yourself with the contribution amount, rollover rules, and the full list of eligible expense categories. This knowledge will help you plan your spending effectively and avoid leaving any funds unused.

When it comes to Pilates, consider scheduling your sessions strategically throughout the year. If your LSA operates on a "use it or lose it" basis, make sure to book classes consistently to prevent losing any remaining balance at the end of the plan year. You can also explore virtual Pilates options, which may offer more flexibility and cost-effectiveness compared to in-studio sessions.

Remember that your LSA likely covers a wide range of wellness activities beyond Pilates. Take advantage of this opportunity to support your overall well-being by combining Pilates with other eligible expenses such as gym memberships, fitness equipment purchases, or wellness apps.

To streamline the reimbursement process and keep track of your spending, maintain detailed records of all your LSA expenses. Save receipts, invoices, and any other relevant documentation for your Pilates sessions and other eligible purchases. Many LSA administrators offer user-friendly online portals or mobile apps that allow you to easily submit claims and monitor your account balance.

By staying organized and keeping tabs on your LSA activity, you can ensure a smooth experience and make the most of this valuable employee benefit. With a little planning and creativity, your LSA can be a powerful tool for prioritizing your health and well-being through Pilates and beyond.

Is an LSA for Pilates worth it?

Ultimately, the decision to use your Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) for Pilates depends on your personal fitness goals and the specific benefits offered by your employer. However, it's worth considering the numerous advantages of incorporating Pilates into your wellness routine.

Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout that can improve core strength, flexibility, posture, and overall physical performance. It also promotes mindfulness and stress reduction, contributing to better mental well-being. Regular Pilates practice offers a well-rounded approach to fitness that can benefit individuals of all ages and skill levels.

An LSA provides a dedicated resource for investing in your health and wellness without straining your personal budget. By using pre-designated funds for Pilates sessions, you can prioritize self-care and maintain a consistent practice without the added financial stress.

Moreover, LSAs offer flexibility and personalization, allowing you to choose the type of Pilates experience that best suits your needs and preferences. Whether you opt for group classes, private sessions, or virtual instruction, an LSA can make regular Pilates practice more accessible and affordable.

A Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) gives you the flexibility to invest in your well-being, including Pilates sessions, without the restrictions of traditional health benefits. Forma makes it easy for employers to design LSAs that support a wide range of wellness expenses, ensuring you can use your benefits in a way that fits your lifestyle. Schedule a consultation with one of our experts today.