What is Pilates?
Pilates is a whole-body movement method designed to improve how your body looks, moves, and feels by rebalancing muscle use and building efficiency. It focuses on strengthening the centre—the deep core muscles that support the spine—while challenging your ability to maintain this connection through controlled, purposeful movements. With a variety of styles ranging from fitness to rehabilitation, Pilates can be adapted to suit individual needs, offering a personalised approach to better posture, balance, and overall wellbeing. Try a class today and discover how Pilates can transform your body and movement!
At MyPilatesTeacher, connects you with teachers to bring this transformative practice to you, tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.
When attending a Pilates class, what you wear can make a big difference in both your comfort and the effectiveness of your session. Here are some key guidelines to consider:
1. Comfort is Key
First and foremost, wear something you feel comfortable moving in. Pilates involves a lot of stretching, bending, and flowing movements, so you’ll want to feel unrestricted.
2. Fitted Clothing is Preferred
While comfort is important, fitted clothing allows the teacher to see your alignment and movement more clearly. Being able to observe what your legs, knees, pelvis, and ribcage are doing helps the teacher offer precise corrections. Examples include:
Leggings or fitted exercise trousers
A close-fitting top or tank top
If fitted clothing feels uncomfortable for you, opt for something that balances your comfort with some level of body visibility for the teacher.
3. Guidelines for Men
For male clients, it’s worth noting that many Pilates exercises involve lying on your back or having your legs apart, especially on the Reformer. To maintain comfort and modesty:
Consider wearing bicycle shorts or compression shorts under a looser pair of shorts.
Avoid overly baggy shorts to ensure movements remain practical and comfortable.
4. Avoid Loose or Baggy Clothing
Baggy clothing can get in the way of your movements and may:
Obstruct the teacher’s ability to check your alignment.
Pose a safety risk on apparatus like the Reformer, where trousers or loose tops might get caught in springs or equipment.
5. Avoid Clothing with Metal Details
Clothing with metal zips, studs, or decorative elements, especially on the back or sides, can damage equipment and even pose a risk of injury. Choose clothes without hard or sharp features.
6. Footwear
Pilates is typically practised barefoot or in grippy socks to maintain traction and stability. Grippy socks are particularly helpful for hygiene and safety, especially on equipment.
By following these guidelines, you’ll help create a safe, effective, and comfortable Pilates experience for both yourself and your teacher. If you’re ever unsure, just ask your teacher for advice—every studio may have additional preferences based on the equipment used.