How to prepare for your first Pilates session

Planning on attending your first Pilates class? Whether you’re attending a private, one-to-one or coming along to a group, there are some things you can do before you even step foot into the studio to prepare for your first Pilates session.

Stay hydrated

Ensuring you drink plenty of water before your session is vitally important. A hydrated body has muscles that move smoothly and easily. If you’re not too keen on the H2O, consider other forms of good-for-you hydration such as no-added-sugar fruit juices or smoothies.

Have a light snack

A few hours before your session, you can indulge in an energising, good-for-you snack. Snack on fresh fruit or a handful of nuts – avoid heavy meals beforehand, though. In Pilates, we do a lot of core work and bending and putting pressure on a full tummy will make you feel sick.

Clear your mind

When you come to Pilates, try to keep your troubles at bay. Check any negative emotions and anxieties at the door before you enter. Keeping a clear mind will help you to stay focused on your session, your body and what you want to achieve. Consider doing a bit of meditation if you have trouble switching your mind off or find yourself obsessing about worries and troubles. Our instructors can help you engage in some deep, methodical breathing to help you focus if you find it particularly difficult to settle yourself. Just ask us and we’ll be there to step right in!

Dress appropriately

Wear clothing that fits well – not too baggy and not too tight. Avoid clothing with external zips and drawstrings as these can get caught in the apparatus and cause injury to yourself and damage to the equipment. You can arrive at the studio already dressed in your Pilates gear or bring your clothes to change into if you’re coming straight from work or other commitment. We provide lockers and a changing room for you to use. You can choose to wear shoes during your session or you can stay in your socks, whatever you feel most comfortable with.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the team. We’re always on hand to answer them and to help you get the most out of our Pilates session.