“This guide helps first timers prepare for their initial session at Westwood Pilates. It covers the benefits of form fitting clothing, explains why grip socks are essential, details what to pack in a studio bag and outlines what to expect upon arrival.”
New fitness studios can make you enthusiastic and worried. Before your first session at Westwood Pilates, you may have questions about what to expect. For instance, will the movements be tough or will you have experience with equipment?
It is perfectly fine to have some trepidation about these things; however, you should feel confident knowing that the studio provides an inviting and down to earth environment that is intended for all types of fitness personalities and capabilities!
The best way to quiet any pre class anxiety is to arrive feeling completely prepared. This guide breaks down exactly what to wear and pack in your bag. By removing the guesswork, you can focus entirely on your core, breath and movement without constantly tugging at your clothes.
What to Wear: Form Fitting and Functional
Pilates clothes take more planning than gym outfits. The key to a nice session is wearing clothes that are close to the skin.
Instructors must observe your precise alignment to guide you. They check your spine curve, hip tilt and knee tracking. Visual input helps them suggest, maximize performance and keep you safe. A Reformer’s springs, pulleys and moving parts may also collect loose cloth.
The Top Layer
Fitted tank tops, snug t shirts and camisoles do not ride up and stay where they are supposed to be. Wearing baggy clothing can flip up over head or around your face as you do the bridge and rollover.
A higher necked top will provide you with more coverage and peace of mind when you lean forward or lie flat on your back looking up. Moisture wicking clothing will help you to remain cool and dry while doing any deep abdominal work.
The Bottom Layer
High waisted, full length, or cropped leggings are the undisputed champions of the studio. They provide excellent coverage through every stretch, bend and leg circle.
It is advisable to choose leggings without zippers, buttons, snaps or large pockets because these materials may be uncomfortable against your skin when you are lying down on the reformer carriage or mat. More importantly, you can scratch or tear the premium leather upholstery on the specialized equipment by wearing any of these hard materials.
The Footwear Dilemma: Bare Feet vs. Grip Socks
When practicing Pilates, you do not need to wear running shoes. You can do Pilates classes barefoot or with special socks; it has been almost universally accepted that the use of grip socks for modern Pilates studios is highly recommended and required.
Grip socks are simply a sock that has rubber like silicone on the bottom to provide the necessary traction. These little traction dots will help you keep your feet from slipping off of the Reformer machine or out of the wooden frame as you fatigue your muscles; they are also an important hygiene issue as they will keep your feet warm while at the same time protecting them from getting dirty, especially when compared to socks that do not have any kind of grip on the bottom.
What to Pack in Your Studio Bag
No need to bring a huge duffel bag to first class. Keep your stuff organised so you always have what you need without cluttering your station.
The Essentials
First, pack reliable, spill proof water bottle. Pilates is low impact workout, but the deep, isometric muscle contractions create serious internal burn. Staying hydrated helps maintain your energy levels and prevents muscle cramping.
Second, bring a small, clean sweat towel. Even in climate controlled room, a challenging tower or mat sequence will make work up sweat. Having a towel nearby is a quick way to keep your hands and face dry so you do not lose your grip on the apparatus.
The Post Class Transition Kit
After a great workout, your body temperature will drop quickly as your heart rate returns to normal. Bring light jacket or pullover sweater for after class.
What to Expect: A First Timer’s Timeline
To enhance your practice, arrive at least 10 15 minutes early so that you have time to check in, fill out any necessary health forms and drop off your belongings in the lockers or cubbies.
The extra time will allow you to do a quick tour around the facility, find your designated exercise station and get comfortable with how everything is set up. The atmosphere is welcoming and friendly and encourages everyone to work at their individual pace as opposed to competing with others.
Conclusion
All experts and instructors started where you do. The hardest aspect of any new fitness endeavor is showing up and trying something new. Dressing comfortably in form-fitting clothes and bringing the basics sets you up for success at one of the Pilates studios.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre existing injuries or health conditions.