What to wear and bring to Pilates classes
(sense of humour is essential!)
What to wear…
Wear what you find comfortable and what you can move easily in. So t-Shirts, cycle shorts, tracky bottoms. But there are some important things to consider below, read more…
Layering is a good idea in the winter too when you have got warmed up.
Less baggy clothing is generally better your teachers, as can more easily see and correct your alignment. This gives you the best chance to do your exercises well.
Also, be mindful of your classmates around you as we’ll be getting into all sorts of positions. If you do wear baggy stuff, put something skinny/clingy underneath as your clothes could easily ride up. See below for more information about why you need to check your fitness wardrobe!
LONG HAIR? - Bring hair ties to class. If we’re doing any self-massage or certain exercises on the equipment it’ll be more comfortable with your hair tied up. We don’t want it getting caught and tugged on.
Footwear…
You don't need any special footwear for Pilates. Some people like to wear socks with sticky bottoms, bare feet are fine too, as long as they are clean and fresh - consider your classmates and teacher. We are pretty hands on so please cover up if you need to.
We don’t allow shoes in the studio, unless you have injuries or restricted movement in your feet and need the support.
WHAT else to BRING…
Water… and a sense of humour. We provide all other equipment, including mats and pillows. If you prefer to bring your own head cushion or mat, then feel free, a small hand towel is a good alternative if you don't have a proper exercise head cushion.
What if you’re exercising at home?
If you are joining our online classes or would just like to exercise between classes we have our list of Pilates essential equipment and where to find it here…
Check your Fitness Wardrobe!!
Be careful of… REALLY SHORT SHORTS, BRA TOPS, LOOSE FITTING TOPS… They can ride up, or show unplanned cleavage. We have lots of different tricky poses and positions in Pilates, you might be holding yourself at unexpected angles. Please ensure you are double layered where possible, don’t worry there’s Aircon in the summer months. We have male teachers and clients and we don’t want you, them or anyone in our classes to feel uncomfortable..
GUYS a warning (actually women too) if you wear shorts, please wear lycra running shorts or compression shorts underneath or you could show more that you might like to. Baggy shorts or really SHORT shorts are not great when you are doing side-lying leg exercises or if you have your legs raised in Reformer exercises. Some of the positions your body moves through can leave you very exposed in the wrong kit.
Check for thin leggings, some are so thin that underwear can be plain to see. Also, if you are in a Reformer class then you will be moving in many different ways that might show off more than you or your classmates wanted to be seen.
How to check? Put on your favourite leggings, turn your back on your bedroom mirror, bend over and look through your legs. That’s pretty much our view when we’re trying to teach certain exercise, and it can be hard to teach when we’re having to avert our gaze too! So if you can see the pattern of your knickers or your thong disappearing… Maybe they’re not best leggings for your Pilates class but fine for running or home workouts.
