Five Key Things to Remember For Your First Pilates Class
Starting something new is a fun and unique feeling that one can only address through action.
Here are 5 Key things to remember for your first Pilates class to be a success.
Begin with the beginning in mind.
Pilates focuses on mind-body connection, form, and breathing. Walk into the space curious and excited to learn. Everyone loves goals. And a vision can take you far. But approaching Pilates with assumptions is a quick way to ruin your first-ever experience.
Fuel, hydrate, and recover
Like all training Pilates should also be approached with care. Avoid heading to class with an empty stomach, as it can affect your performance. You don’t want to get caught in a new environment underfilled.
Drink plenty of water before, during, and after class. Hydrating the body hydrates the brain, breath, and muscles while priming the body for movement and recovery.
Whenever someone introduces a new fitness routine to their regimen, it can be helpful not to overexert yourself the day before and after.
Review the studio website to know what equipment to wear/bring.
Most studios will require grippy socks for safety reasons. TGC’s Sunday Mat Pilates Sessions ($13) require you to bring your mat. Take other items you will need, too, like towels, hair ties, and water.
The breath is important and gets cued by the instructor for a reason. Pay attention.
A Pilates sequence can be enhanced or advanced through breath and focus. Open your ears for tips and cues to support your first experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions during or after class.
Pilates is a practice.
Avoid comparing yourself to others in the class. Everyone is there to try to be better than their last session and improve their practice. Relax, breathe deeply, and enjoy the experience.