Starting Pilates as a Beginner
Beginning a new hobby or class can be daunting, and anything fitness-related can be especially stressful. Walking into a gym for the first time isn’t easy! If you’ve recently decided you’d like to try Pilates, I’ve put together these tips to help you make the first steps to begin a rewarding and beneficial fitness journey.
Choosing a beginner-friendly Pilates instructor
So you’ve decided you’re going to try Pilates. Amazing! The first step is choosing a good Pilates instructor. To find a teaching style right for you, think about what learning conditions you are most comfortable with. Relaxed and calming? Or more assertive and straightforward? A very professional setting, or a more informal, friendly atmosphere? There is no ‘wrong’ way to go here - it’s entirely your preference.
You can get a feel of what an instructor is like through their online presence, as well as their reviews - are they a large business or gym, or smaller and more closely-knit? How do they interact with their clients online? Can you see yourself as part of that community?
It is also important to research the qualifications of your Pilates instructor. How are they qualified to teach you Pilates? Look for recognised qualifications such as STOTT Pilates certification, Body Control certification, and Equinox certification to name but a few. Don’t be afraid to ask them about their qualifications and specialisations. It’s also important to make sure they have public liability insurance.
Choosing a Beginner Pilates Class
Many instructors will offer a range of classes to cater to different abilities, so make sure your preferred instructor or gym has a specialised beginner class so you can really get the basics learned. Or, consider paying a little more for private classes - that way you can really be certain you’re learning it correctly and will likely progress much faster.
I’d advise starting with mat classes first before considering reformer Pilates or any other equipment - with a strong foundation you can then move on to more advanced (and exciting!) techniques!
What to Wear and Bring
A great thing about Pilates is that you really don’t need much for an effective workout - but here are some easy guidelines.
Wear gym clothes you feel comfortable in for the first sessions - don’t overthink it. As you progress, you might want to wear more form-fitting clothes so your clothes don’t get caught in the springs and pulleys - and also so your instructor can see how your muscles are engaging and help you perfect your movements.
You don’t need fancy trainers - you should be able to keep your shoes on, but you will probably find it better to do the class in your socks.
Tie long hair back, as you would any other exercise.
Bring a full water bottle to stay hydrated during the class.
Normally, the gym/instructor would provide mats, but under current coronavirus circumstances , they might ask you to bring your own.
Final thoughts
You’ve chosen your instructor and your class - you’re ready to go! You might feel nervous, that’s completely normal. Make sure your instructor knows you are new and they will make effort to make you feel welcome and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and put all your effort in - you’ll get so much more out of it! Enjoy!