Inside the Pilates Routine Keeping FANTASY Showgirls Stage-Ready

McNutt, who balances her stage career with work as a certified Pilates instructor, traces her commitment to the practice back to her teenage years. After suffering dance-related injuries, she turned to physical therapy and discovered that controlled, low-impact movement provided the foundation her body needed to endure professional dance. Today, her routine includes heated mat classes on Mondays to reset for the week and reformer sessions on Tuesdays to rejuvenate her muscles before evening performances.

Beyond the stage lights, McNutt advocates for accessibility in fitness. She suggests that beginners focus on foundational movements like bridging for pelvic floor health and roll-ups for spinal mobility. Her core advice for maintaining physical longevity is remarkably simple: prioritize hydration and hit a 10,000-step daily goal. She emphasizes that the intimidating atmosphere of a gym should not deter anyone from starting, noting that human biology is designed for movement regardless of the setting.

While audiences witness the polished, glamorous final product, the reality backstage involves constant, high-stakes physical exertion. This behind-the-scenes endurance is a hallmark of the show, which recently celebrated its 26th anniversary under the direction of Anita Mann. As the production evolves—including recent expansions into a signature lingerie line and annual calendar projects—the dancers maintain their demanding schedule with a dedication to physical health that mirrors the intensity of their craft.