What to Wear to Pilates

Back in January, I signed up for a two week trial at a pilates studio—the kind with the fancy machines. I’d been in a rut with my workouts and one of my friends raved about it. It’s been 5 months, and I’m loving this form of exercise. I typically go twice a week and I feel so much stronger and more toned than I have in years.

For any moms out there that are struggling with core strength after having kids, this has been a game-changer. It’s really challenging, but it’s a quick low-impact workout and do a great job of strengthening your core muscles. If you don’t have time to go to a studio, there are so many floor pilates classes online, my personal favorite being Melissa Wood Health. Even though I go to an in-person class twice a week, I love having her membership too because it’s really affordable and it’s great for traveling, or when I want something I can do from home that’s still an effective workout.

What is Pilates?

Quick history if you’re not even sure what pilates is! Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting overall body awareness. It was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century and has since gained popularity as a low-impact workout that can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels.

It can be as challenging as you make it which I love! Each class I get stronger, but the workout doesn’t necessarily get easier because I’m able to continuously challenge myself.

So, what do you wear to pilates? Like any class, you’ll want to wear something that you’re comfortable in, but there are a few pointers I wanted to share if you’ve never been to a class before so you can create the perfect pilates outfits!

What to Wear to a Pilates Class

Leggings

Leggings are a great option to wear to a Pilates class for several reasons. First and foremost, leggings provide a comfortable and flexible option for movement during exercises. Baggier pants can be restrictive and your knees can get caught up in them. Leggings made in stretchy fabrics will give you a full range of motion without being uncomfortable.

Obviously leggings are form-fitting! Which is great because this means they won’t get in the way during your class. There are lots of bungies, handles, pulls and straps on the pilates equipment and leggings keep you from getting caught on anything. Leggings stay in place and provide coverage during class. Often times you’ll find yourself with your butt in the air, so having full coverage is important.

Personally, I like high-waisted leggings for Pilates because they offer support and compression around the waist and hips. I find this helps me think about my core engagement and provides a sense of stability. They also suck everything in which simply makes me feel more confident and comfortable during my workout. You might also want to consider moisture-wicking fabric because you can definitely work up quite the sweat!

Biker Shorts

As it gets warmer and the studio gets hot faster, you can opt for biker shorts instead of leggings for a Pilates class.

Bike shorts offer a compressive and supportive fit, just like leggings, but with the added benefit of keeping you cooler during your workout. The shorter length allows for more breathability and less fabric coverage, which can be more comfortable when the temperature rises.

At the end up the day, it’s totally up to you and what you feel comfortable in, but if you find yourself getting too hot, bike shorts are a great option and much better than loose shorts.

Tank Top or Tee

Tank tops or fitted tees are best for a Pilates class because they provide comfort, breathability, and ease of movement. During a Pilates workout, you need to be able to move freely without any restrictions or hindrances. Tank tops and fitted tees offer a close fit that allows for a full range of motion while still providing coverage and support. Opt for tops made in breathable fabrics.

You can wear a supportive sports bra underneah as well.

Again, tops that are more fitted against your body are a lot less likely to get in the way or be a distraction during your Pilates practice. Loose-fitting tops can ride up or fall over your face in positions where you’re head is lower than your waist. It’s distracting and annoying—believe me, I learned the hard way.

Overall, tank tops or fitted tees are the best choice for a pilates class because they offer the perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and style. They allow you to feel confident and confident in your outfit, so you can focus on getting the most out of your workout.

Bralette or Cropped Tank

Another option for a top to wear to pilates is a simple bralette or cropped top.The tops are designed to provide a secure fit but are more revealing, so decide what you feel comfortable in. I like them for their breathability and again, because they’re fitted against your body, they won’t get in the way. Plus, these tops often have a bra shelf built-in, or are a bra themselves so you don’t have to worry about one more layer.

Grippy Socks

My studio requires grippy socks (I think it’s a post covid thing), but they really come in handy if barefoot is not an option. They provide traction and stability during movements on the Reformer or mat.

Essentially, they keep yo from sliding and falling during some of the more challenging exercises. Grippy socks also protect the bottoms of your feet, allowing you to focus on your form and technique without worrying about slipping.

The grips on the bottom of the socks help to enhance balance and stability, which is essential in Pilates for proper alignment and control. Most studios sell them because people forget them all the time. A great tip? Store a few pairs in your car just in case you forget!

Hair Ties

Lastly, a good hair tie is pretty crucial to any workout class. It obviously helps keep your hair out of your face and off your neck so that you can focus on the instructor and the exercises being performed.

It can be really distracting if oyour in a hold or balance and suddenly your hair falls in your face and knocks you off balance.

I try to keep a few in my car or crossbody bag that I typically bring with me to store my keys, wallet and chapstick because we live in Denver and it’s always dry!

Whether you’re doing reformer pilates, Lagree, or at-home mat pilates I hope this helps you with what to wear to your pilates class. Enjoy What to Wear to Pilates

this low-impact exercise and you’ll find yourself getting stronger before you know it!Pilates is a popular workout that focuses on strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. Whether you’re a seasoned pilates practitioner or just starting out, wearing the right clothing can make a difference in your comfort and performance during the class. In this article, we’ll discuss the essential items to wear to your pilates session.

Whether you’re doing reformer pilates, Lagree or at-home mat pilates, these tips will keep you focused on your workout and not your clothes. Enjoy this low-impact workout and I promise you’ll start feeling stronger before you know it!

BTW, how to find a workout you love, and 10 amazing benefits of sunshine for your health.