What should I wear to Pilates?

What you wear is important and not because it’s a fashion contest. Wearing the right thing can make a difference in how you focus on your workout and thus, impact your results. Much of this information is listed in the FAQs on my website but maybe you haven’t taken the time to read the nitty gritty (don’t worry, you’re not alone.) So, whether you’re new to Pilates and nervous about how to show up to your first session, or you’re an old hat, here are some tips for what to wear and what not to wear to avoid any wardrobe malfunctions or other embarrassing snafus.  

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that will allow you to move freely.

Pilates will have you moving in different directions, making big circles with your legs and maybe even going upside down with your legs overhead. Try to wear clothing that isn’t going to ride up or require you tugging it into place all the time. This will get annoying for you and distract you from your workout and if you didn’t already know it, concentration is key in Pilates.

You also want clothing that allows your instructor to see how you are moving so he/she can help you maintain proper form, so think about wearing something more fitting and not your favorite oversized sweatshirt.  

Be sure that pants or shorts are well-fitting and not too loose or they could get caught in the apparatus. Pro tip: Please consider what's visible when you are lying on your back with your legs up. Wear biker shorts or another fitted option under those loose fitting shorts for privacy. (Men, I’m talking to you.)

Finally, ladies, you may want to do the squat test before class and double check that your leggings aren't see through when stretched - eek! Trust me, I’ve seen it all and really won't care, but you may not be able to focus on deepening your abdominals if you’re worried about the potential exposure of your bare buns through your semi-sheer leggings.

Avoid clothing with zippers, snaps, etc. and sharp jewelry.

Sharp objects could puncture or tear the equipment and since most Pilates equipment is custom ordered, repairs are very expensive.

Jewelry can also get in the way and cause you to reposition your body in a way that’s not best for your alignment. Yes, even having to turn your rings and shift your weight on your hands because of it can cause issues. Necklaces can also get caught in the headrest on the reformer so please be mindful.

Shoes are not required but clean feet and socks are.

Be prepared to work out in socks for sanitary reasons unless otherwise advised and do make sure your feet and socks are clean. If you find you are sliding on the apparatus try grip socks. They can be found at many fitness clothing stores and online.

Tie your hair back.

Keeping your hair out of your face is important for two reasons: just like with loose jewelry, loose hair can also get caught in springs and hinges and ouch, you don’t want that. You also don’t want to be fiddling with your hair during your lesson causing you to lose that aforementioned focus on what’s really important – the flow of your workout.

Keep electronics in the studio to a minimum.

I recommend turning your ringer off on your phone and keeping your phone by your shoes – neither are needed in Pilates.

If you wear an Apple watch or similar device, consider turning it off. This goes back to the idea of concentration and focus. If you want to wear your fitness tracker, I'm okay with it but if incoming messages and calls are distracting you and others, it will be disruptive to the flow of the workout. The repetition and transitions in traditional Pilates are what make it so unique and help your body move with ease in and outside of the studio. Do yourself the benefit of getting the most out of your sessions and keep distractions to a minimum.

Skip the greasy lotions, bronzers and makeup.

Dare I say it again, the equipment is not cheap. Beauty products can leave stains and can be really difficult to clean off the vinyl. Towels are provided for when you are lying facedown so if you have makeup on your face and require a towel, please request one.

Finally, leave the scented lotions and perfumes at home.

At a minimum, fragrances can be distracting for some people and even cause allergic reactions in others, so please be considerate to those around you and save the perfumes for date night.

I hope these tips help prepare you to get the most out of your Pilates sessions. And now, let's move. See you at the studio!