What to wear to your Pilates classes

Pilates is a very popular exercise among women and men, which is relatively low-impact, emphasising control, precision, and proper alignment of the body. You’ll likely be stretching your body in multiple positions, so when it comes to choosing what to wear to a Pilates class, comfort and ease of movement should be your top priorities. Here are some tips for what to wear to Pilates.

Look for comfortable and breathable clothing

Pilates involves a lot of controlled movements, so you’ll want to wear clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Look for stretchy, breathable materials like cotton, spandex, or moisture-wicking fabrics. This will help you remain flexible during class and avoid any awkward tears or inability to reach certain positions.

Remember that you’ll be hot and sweaty so avoid anything too tight that will retain moisture. That being said you should also avoid anything too loose or baggy, as it may get in the way of your movements. You should make sure you’re also not wearing anything too tight fitting, if you pay attention to sizing then this will give you the most comfortable experience during classes.

Opt for form-fitting clothing

There are many options for form-fitting clothing, so make sure you do some shopping and spend time finding exactly what is right for you. We all have individual body shapes, so the same clothing that works for someone else may not work for you.

While you don’t want to wear anything too tight, form-fitting clothing can help your instructor see your alignment and ensure that you perform the exercises correctly. Look for clothes that fit snugly but still allow you to move freely.

For the bottom half of your outfit, look for something form-fitting but not too tight. Yoga pants and leggings are a popular choice since they provide support and flexibility. If you prefer shorts, ensure they don’t ride up during exercises. It’s also best to avoid wearing loose skirts or dresses, as they can be distracting.

Wear comfortable footwear

Pilates is typically done barefoot, so you’ll want to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you prefer to wear shoes, you should find some with the thinnest sole possible to allow for natural movement during your classes. It is also important to avoid clunky shoes or runners as these will disrupt your balance during workouts.

Typically whatever is thin and comfortable works best, but if you’re looking to start pilates, then it’s best to enjoy your sessions barefoot as you’ll develop the most foot strength this way.

You can also incorporate layers

Pilates studios can be either hot or cold, so it’s a good idea to wear layers that you can adjust as needed. This will allow for the ultimate amount of flexibility in different situations, making your sessions comfortable no matter what the climate. Generally, a lightweight tank top or t-shirt, paired with a sweater or long-sleeved shirt, can help you stay comfortable throughout the class.

Don’t forget about the length of clothing

While Pilates is a low-impact exercise, you’ll still be moving and stretching in various positions. This is why it’s important to ensure your clothing is not too short or too long, as it could get in the way of your movements or cause you to trip. It’s not enough to just check your clothing can fit normally we must also consider the length of your garments.

You should also consider wearing clothing that won’t reveal too much skin when bent over or doing upside-down poses. This is important to keep the focus on your practice and not make it a distraction for yourself or others in the class.

Stay prepared and comfortable!

Overall, the most important thing to remember when choosing what to wear to Pilates is comfort and ease of movement. By wearing stretchy, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear, you’ll be able to focus on your practice and get the most out of your Pilates class.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio