Your First Pilates Class: How To Prepare

Taking the leap and signing up for your first Pilates class is exciting, but for some people, it can also be a little overwhelming. It’s a new activity in a new place with new people… There is a lot to figure out! If you’re the type of person who likes to be prepared ahead of time, this post will help you prepare for your first Pilates class so you can show up with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect. 

Getting There

b.Pilates & Fitness has two studios, one at my home and the other in a private space within a larger fitness facility. Since both would be hard to find without instructions, before your first Pilates class I’ll send you an email that details exactly where to park and find the studio space. For other studios or classes, they may do the same or have information on their website. At a big gym, there is always a reception desk that can help guide you. 

What To Bring

A great part of going to a studio with all the apparatuses (which is what we call the equipment,) is that you don’t need to bring any special gear. On the other hand, if you’re attending a class at a gym, yoga studio, retreat, or pop-up class, you’ll likely need to bring your own yoga mat. Studios have upholstered mats with straps and dowels for you to hold on to or hook your feet under. Other than that, you may want to bring a small towel and a water bottle, but it’s up to you. Some workouts can be really sweaty, while others not so much. 

What to Wear

Pilates is all about movement, and you spend a lot of time moving your legs up, down, and around. On the apparatus, there are springs that you don’t want to get loose clothing caught in. Semi-fitted, stretchy workout wear is ideal. Leggings, joggers, or long shorts are a good choice for bottoms. There is no special brand of clothes you need to buy; simply wear what you feel good in and can move easily in. As for your hair? I finally found the perfect Pilates hairstyle! 

What About Shoes?

Pilates is done without shoes and is most often done in bare feet. That being said, some studios will require you to wear Pilates socks with grippy bottoms, while others require socks of any kind. I personally prefer to do Pilates in bare feet most of the time, but will wear toe socks or other Pilates socks in colder months. Yet even then, for some exercises, I feel more safe and secure in bare feet and will take them off. 

What You Don’t Need

Some people think that they need to reach a certain level of flexibility or strength to do Pilates. You don’t! You don’t need any experience at all to get started – Pilates is for every body. Plus, your instructor is trained to meet you where you’re at and help you to learn Pilates, build up your strength, and gain flexibility. 

The Most Important Thing

To be the most prepared for your first Pilates class, remember to have an open mind and patience with yourself and the method. It will take time to learn the exercises and how to use the various apparatuses. At first, it might not even feel all that difficult; but over time, the exercises get more and more challenging as you gain more awareness and control. 

You’ve got this and your instructor is there to help.