How to Start Pilates As A Beginner

Starting something new can be intimidating, especially if you aren’t 100% sure what you are getting yourself into. I feel that Pilates is “one of those things”. When you start Pilates as a beginner, it can seem so foreign – there is special equipment, the moves have strange names, and darn those instructors look fit! I am here to tell you that when you start Pilates as a beginner, it doesn’t have to feel so scary. 

My First Time Doing Pilates

As a fitness instructor and personal trainer, I used to hear about Pilates all the time. My clients probably even assumed that I knew what it was. The truth? I had no clue! I knew you did it on a yoga mat, there was stretching, and it was good for your core. I didn’t understand why or how it worked, though. 

Since my job was fitness, I often thought about trying Pilates, but I wasn’t sure if I had the time. Plus, there weren’t many Pilates studios where I lived, yet. Sure, I tried the free Pilates DVD that came attached to a baby formula container in the late 90’s, but I still don’t think that counts. Plus, my three children under five years old made it hard for me to venture out to try new classes. 

Any classes that I did were almost all at the gym where I worked. That’s because they had childcare! Finally, the gym began to offer a Pilates class, so that is where I got my start. The class was BIG – up to twenty-five people, and I was pretty intimidated at first. Several classes in, however, I was intrigued enough to start learning more about the Pilates method. Who knew that taking a drop-in class would lead me to owning my own Pilates studio? You simply don’t know until you try. 

Are Drop-In Pilates Classes Good For Beginners?

I started Pilates doing drop-in classes because that was the only way I could make it work for me. As someone with a fitness background, even I found learning the movements a bit confusing at first. Still, there definitely were pros and cons: 

Pros and Cons of Drop-In Pilates

If you want to get a feel for Pilates, a drop-in class at the gym or rec centre may work for you. It will give you a feel for the mat work, and give you a good overview of the type of movements that Pilates can offer. 

I love a good drop-in class, but for me, I found the large group format difficult. With such big classes and rotating attendees, I felt a bit lost. The teacher would name an exercise, and while some would get right to it, I had to look to my neighbor for guidance. Looking back now, I realize that almost no one was “getting it” in regards to how or why they were even doing the mat work. There also wasn’t any personalization for my goals, abilities, or injuries. When you start Pilates as a beginner, it is hard to jump into without a bit of personal direction. 

The Best Way to Start Pilates as a Beginner

Pilates is a method, a practice. You can compare it to martial arts; it has skills built on skills. Sadly, Pilates doesn’t hand out coloured belts (though I’m open to ideas!). We repeat the same exercises, progressing as we build strength or increase mobility. Even more importantly, because we become aware of what the heck we are trying to achieve with the exercise in the first place. 

I started my Pilates journey in a big group class at a gym, and I discovered a passion strong enough to lead me here. Looking back, that class is exactly what I needed. Even with what I know now, I wouldn’t have changed a thing! But if you have specific fitness goals, are dealing with injuries, or are serious about beginning a dedicated Pilates practice, then a big group class may not be for you. 

Join a Pilates Studio

I have a bias here, but I also have a long history working in fitness. Some large group classes, like step classes or HIIT, are exhilarating and benefit from many people accomplishing things together. Pilates is not like that. When you start Pilates as a beginner, you want to have a strong foundation so you get the most out of your practice. 

Each exercise has a specific purpose, and can be modified to fit your ability. You can easily make the “shape” of a Pilates movement, but not get any benefit if you aren’t using your muscles properly. In a small studio class, you get the personal attention and direction that you need to succeed with Pilates. 

Try an Online Pilates Class

With in-person fitness classes suspended right now, it might seem crazy to talk about group fitness. Well, call me crazy – but I am putting together a new program for beginners to learn Pilates on the b.Pilates & Fitness App! Normally, I charge $160 for a three-session introduction to Pilates, which is required before you attend any of my in-person classes. 

With quarantine putting a damper on group fitness, I’m creating a four-week program that will introduce you to the fundamentals of Pilates, plus a virtual Zoom class each week. This gives you the basics, PLUS the advantage of access to me (virtually) to ask questions. I am planning on launching this class on May 10, 2020. Leave me a comment if you are in! 

Starting Can Be Scary

Starting anything new can feel awkward and uncomfortable. No matter if you start in a group class, at a studio, or online, know that we have all been there. No one was born knowing how to walk, and no one woke up knowing how to do Pilates. We simply practice over and over until we can do it without thinking. And I am here for you on you Pilates journey.