Are You Considering Pilates?
As a perfect mix of balance, strength, posture, and flexibility – Pilates is one of the best forms of exercise out there. We know that every time you go to a new fitness class can be intimidating, so here is a list of things to know before your first Pilates class.
First, What Is Pilates
Pilates is a physical fitness system developed by Joseph Pilates at the beginning of the 20th century. He referred to it as “Contrology“. Ever since then, the Pilates exercise movement took over the world.
The 2 Types of Pilates Classes
There are 2 types of pilates classes: the reformer classes and mat classes.
The mat classes are done on a mat which is a bit thicker than a yoga mat, so it cushions the pressure points and the reformer classes are done on a machine called the reformer.
Do not be intimidated by the reformer machine, it is just a sliding platform with a stationary foot bar, and some strings and pulleys to provide resistance.
Either way, you should know which one of these classes you’d like to attend. If you’re a “workout at home” person, then you’re destined for a mat workout.
Equipment
Besides the mats (which are provided on the class), there are only a couple of pieces of equipment used in Pilates. And most beginner mat classes do not require any at all. You should check with your instructor for additional gear, if anything.
Most used equipment in the Reformer class is:
- The Cadillac (it looks like a little bed with a canopy frame)
- The Wunda (A low chair with padding and springs)
- A Spine Corrector
- A High Chair
- The Magic Circle (a ring used to make resistance)
In most classes, you will likely use the Reformer, The Chair, a Spine Corrector and a smaller version of the Cadillac. Beginners are usually advised to take a few private lessons before joining a group class.
Also, don’t forget a bottle of water.
What To Wear
Clothing for pilates and yoga is almost the same. Additionally their popularity has brought on an explosion of fun, and fashionable clothing pieces and accessories. Also, these classes tend to be casual, but, be minded that every studio is different so these are some basic guidelines:
Avoid Jewelry and fashion Accessories, as they can distract you from your workout. Form-fitting may therefore be a bit better. Avoid baggy clothes as they tend to cover up the lines of your muscles, that way your instructor can’t see if your form is good. Go bare-footed. Pilates is usually done bare-footed, but if you insist, you can wear socks.
Tie your hair, if your hair is long. Make sure it is tied so it doesn’t fall on your face. Make sure you – DO NOT – wear strong-scented products, as some studios require non-scented toiletries.
Most Important:
Whatever your choice of clothes, or exercise equipment for your first Pilates class might be, make sure you do it so it suits you.
There is no point in going all crazy with equipment, when at the end of the day, what matters the most is that you feel comfortable while doing your workout. Let’s burn those calories.
