Preparing for Your First Pilates Lesson

Pilates is for everyone regardless of their current shape and fitness level, and you do not need to do any preparation before walking into a studio.

s the owner of two Manhattan Pilates studios, I frequently answer the question: "How can I prepare for my first Pilates session?"

Are you wondering the same thing? Allow me to dispel some of the popular misconceptions surrounding Pilates and help get you started on a lifelong journey and commitment to the Pilates method.

Pilates Is for Everyone

Pilates is for everyone regardless of their current shape and fitness level. You do not need to do any “preparation crunches” before walking into the studio. In fact, you will not do any at the studio, either. Whether you are an Olympic athlete or an 80-year-old sedentary retiree, your workout will be tailored to your individual needs. Of course, this is dependent on selecting the right instructor.

	You will be guaranteed to feel and see a difference within ten sessions if you are coming in at least twice a week.

Pilates Dress Code

The dress code for Pilates is similar to that of Yoga. Your clothing should be comfortable, but fitted, so that your instructor can observe your movements. Avoid oversized t-shirts and sweatpants. Men should consider wearing tight cycling shorts (at my studio, most wear them under their regular athletic shorts). You will not wear shoes, but you may need socks because of state health codes. Even if your state allows you to go barefoot, consider wearing socks to prevent the spread of germs. There are several brands of socks that have sticky bottoms that help you throughout your workout—my personal favorites are Crescent Moon and ToeSox.

Pilates and Food—to Eat or Not Before a Session

You don’t have to change the way you eat for Pilates. Just make sure that you give yourself 2-3 hours to properly digest your food before the workout. Drink plenty of water—hydration is important.

Booking your appointment

Most studios do not take walk-in clients, so I encourage you to book your appointment at least a day ahead. This will give the studio time to match you with a suitable instructor. Most studios give their instructors their schedules the night before and do not expect them to be available outside of those hours, so plan ahead.

For your health and safety and to help the studio prepare for your appointment, it is extremely important that you tell the studio of any and all health conditions before your first visit. I find that new clients often shy away from mentioning injuries until the second or third session. Please make the most of your time and money by making everyone (the studio and your instructor) aware before you start. There are modifications for every exercise, so do not aggravate an old injury by being silent.

Pilates Exercise: a Lifelong Commitment

Lastly, remember that Pilates is a lifelong commitment and it will take a few sessions before your body and mind grasp the exercise. Plan to take at least two to three sessions before deciding if Pilates is for you. You will be guaranteed to feel and see a difference within ten sessions if you are coming in at least twice a week—and by that time you will be hooked!