Walking into a Pilates Studio

Walking into a Pilates studio for the first time can be daunting. A quick glance around will reveal a variety of odd-looking contraptions that you will rightly assume are “Pilates machines”, but you may not so readily imagine how your body could actually engage with them.

Not to worry, Pilates is a very professional, client centered practice. “So what really happens here?” you wonder.

Mat Work and/or Equipment

Pilates workouts are based either on the Pilates mat work, which is done on the floor with a minimum of equipment, or on Pilates apparatus i.e. those weird looking contraptions.

The reformer is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and Pilates exercise principles are incorporated in the exercises. The reformer exercises are adaptable to any fitness level. The mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of core strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

What to Bring to a Pilates Class:

You won’t need to bring much with you to the Pilates studio. The studio provides any equipment that might be needed for the workout. Though you probably won’t be guzzling water, as some do during aerobic workouts, you will still want to have a water bottle (they are available in the studio) and make sure that you are well hydrated before you start.