What to expect in your very first Pilates class

It's your very first time doing Pilates. Don't worry, everyone has been a newbie at Pilates. We're going to give you a few tips so you know exactly what to expect at our Studio or Clinical Pilates class.

What do I wear?

There is absolutely no judgment in our friendly and open studio environment. So wear what you would normally wear when you're exercising. The only thing we ask is that you wear socks. Grippy socks are the best, as we don't wear shoes during our Pilates classes, and grippy socks make it a lot easier to work out in. You can wear either shorts or longer tights. You won't need your shoes, so you can wear flip flops on your way to and from our studio.

What do I need to bring?

You'll need your own mat. This is usually a yoga mat. Bring a towel (we do work up a sweat!), and a bottle of water can be handy too. We should have all the props you need in the class, but if you have anything specific you need (like a yoga block), feel free to bring it with you.

What do I do when I get there?

We start our classes on time, so it's good to arrive a few minutes early and get yourself settled in. You can do some light stretches, have a chat with your fellow class members or the instructor, or do whatever you like. There's no particular etiquette to follow.

What can I expect during the class?

If you haven't done Pilates before, you can expect the first class to start with the instructor or physiotherapist giving you a rundown of the basics of Pilates. This includes things like - breathing, the different spinal position on the mat, how to engage the correct muscles during exercises, and your neck positioning.

Each Pilates exercise will involve the instructor or physiotherapist giving detailed instructions. Don't worry if you can't take everything in at once. Ask us questions! And if you get lost with the breathing pattern, just focus on the correct movements, and breathe naturally. The exercises will focus on working your abdominal muscles, glutes, legs, arms and back muscles.

Pilates is a mindfulness exercise, and you will find yourself becoming more and more familiar with the exercises as you attend more classes.

How is Pilates different from yoga?

You might find some similar movements in Pilates and yoga, but in actual fact, Pilates and yoga are two very different practices. The biggest benefit of Pilates is strengthening weak areas, especially the glutes and your core muscles. During a class, you're taught to activate the right muscles with correct form. This also provides flow on benefits to other parts of your body. Therefore, Pilates is really good for rehabilitation and general fitness.

Yoga strengthens too, but we feel it has a stronger purpose of improving flexibility and balance. It pushes the body (either a little or a lot, depending on the individual) to adapt to different positions.

Pilates and yoga have different ways of breathing (Pilates breathes out through the mouth, and yoga through the nose). But both increase your awareness of your own body and help you be present in the moment.

How will you feel after the class?

You will feel refreshed, perhaps even standing a little taller. And hopefully, you'll love the experience.

You might feel a bit sore on the day after the class (especially in your abs and glutes). This is normal. To help with the soreness, drink plenty of water and eat protein rich foods.

Like any other exercise, the more you practice Pilates, the better you'll get. You will feel toned, strong and more flexible. It's no wonder that people get addicted to Pilates. If you want to give it a go, book online today or give us a call on 07 3061 7128.