Pilates has garnered a devoted following for its focus on core strength, adaptability, and holistic body awareness, making it suitable for all fitness levels. This exercise, which dates back to the early 20th century, has seen a significant resurgence in popularity, championed by celebrities and the emergence of specialized studios and apparel brands.
When choosing your Pilates wardrobe, prioritize comfort and freedom of movement. As Liana Levi, founder of Forma Pilates, advises, “Pilates fashion can be fun as you have more versatility in wearing different styles, since the workout is not as high-impact as a high-intensity class.” For studio sessions, consider matching sets that offer a polished yet practical look, or opt for a classic sports bra and long leggings. Literary Sport's capri-length leggings provide a chic alternative, while timeless designs ensure you remain stylish and comfortable.
For tops, select options that facilitate a full range of motion. Depending on your preference, you can choose from various styles, including longline camis from brands like Free People, or cropped tanks from Splits59, Beyond Yoga, and 437. Regardless of the style, the key is to ensure the top offers a balance of form and function tailored to your body type.
Bottoms should be comfortable and non-restrictive. Jacqui Kingswell, founder of The Pilates Class, recommends high-waisted leggings in soft, stretchy fabrics for optimal comfort during medium-to-high impact movements. If full-length leggings aren't your preference, biker shorts or shorter styles made from compressive and lightweight materials are also excellent choices, ensuring they stay in place during your workout.
For those who prefer a single-piece outfit, jumpsuits and unitards offer a convenient solution. Look for styles made from soft fabrics with built-in support, such as a bra. Options like Lululemon's Align bodysuit or Girlfriend Collective's Café bike unitard streamline your workout attire. For cooler environments or post-workout comfort, cozy zip-ups or cardigans are essential. Cashmere sweaters from brands like Goop's G. Label or oversized hoodies from Lululemon and Varley provide warmth and a relaxed silhouette that can be easily layered over your activewear.
To complete your Pilates ensemble, don't forget the importance of proper footwear and accessories. Grippy socks are highly recommended by instructors like Kim Carruthers for studio classes, preventing slips and enhancing stability. Comfortable slip-on shoes, such as Birkenstocks or streamlined sneakers, are ideal for easy transitions to and from your workout. For at-home practice, a non-slip, thick mat is crucial. Additionally, props like the magic circle, light weights, and resistance bands can elevate your routine by mimicking studio equipment and improving strength and mobility around major joints, as suggested by instructor Taylor Phillips.
Pilates, founded by Joseph Pilates for rehabilitation, emphasizes core principles of balance, precision, and control. This practice is renowned for lengthening and strengthening muscles, leading to a leaner physique. It effectively targets smaller muscle groups and improves flexibility, strength, posture, and overall body awareness, making it an excellent complement to other fitness routines. Whether performing on a reformer or a mat, consistent practice yields significant physical improvements, supporting long-term physical well-being and aiding in post-operative or prenatal recovery.
To maximize results, experts suggest practicing Pilates four to five times per week for intensive training, or two to three times for beginners. Regular engagement with Pilates can lead to noticeable muscle engagement within a week and significantly increased mobility after about 30 sessions, showcasing its profound impact on physical transformation.
