What You Need For Your First Pilates Session

New clients often ask me what they need for their first Pilates class, and it is a great question! Some activities come with all sorts of gear and special accessories, but Pilates is very low key in that regard. You probably have everything you need at home. 

What to Wear to Pilates Class

Wearing layers is always a good idea, as your body will be cooler at first. As you get moving and your body starts working, you will get a lot warmer, and will want to peel those layers right off.  And, while you can do Pilates barefoot, you can also wear “grippy socks”. Regular socks can slip, which makes working out harder – and unsafe! My favourite socks are ToeSox and Tavi Noir, which we carry in the studio for your convenience. 

Since we are bending and stretching our whole bodies during Pilates, you will want to dress in a way that you can move freely in all directions. Wear something stretchy, like leggings or capris, or even long shorts. It is also helpful if your top is a fitted style, so your instructor can see the way your spine is moving to help you achieve the proper alignment and movements.

What to Bring to Pilates Class

The only things you need to bring to Pilates class are a water bottle and a small towel. If you are doing a larger class at say, a rec centre or gym, you probably will need to bring your own yoga mat. But in a Pilates studio, things are a lot different. Studios usually provide mats (like we do at b.Pilates & Fitness). Some studios even have a special Pilates mat, that has attached straps for you to hook your feet under, or hold on to, which is helpful for some exercises. 

Pilates is such an accessible form of fitness; almost anyone can do it, you don’t need fancy gear, and the only mandatory requirement (at my studio, anyway), is that you come with an open mind and a readiness to learn, move, and feel great.