Starting Pilates can be both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking, especially if you're unsure of what to expect. If you're curious about Pilates but haven't yet taken the plunge into your first mat class, let me walk you through what you can anticipate.
Welcoming Environment
Your first Pilates mat class with Your Pilates Bestie will be held over Zoom or, if you’re lucky enough to be in the area and attending something in-person, in a studio or gym setting that is conducive to relaxation and focus. Studios are often designed with calming colors and minimal distractions to help you concentrate on your movements and breathing.
If you’re joining via Zoom, you can create a great space for yourself with just a few touches: making sure the floor is clean, having space around your mat that is clear of obstacles, ensuring there is light in front of you - nothing overly harsh or bright - so it’s easier to be seen, making sure your video is horizontal so you can see the whole screen well and your entire mat is visible, and having the room a moderate temperature.
Introduction to Pilates Principles
The class will typically begin with an introduction to the basic principles of Pilates.
In most Classical classes, these principles include concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow.
In Contemporary classes, these principles are breathing, pelvic placement, rib cage position, shoulder stability, and head & neck placement.
In class with Kimberly, you’ll learn about all of these (and more) while you do some starter positions that help you find out how these principles feel. You’ll understand how these principles guide Pilates exercises and help you achieve optimal results while you start to find them in your own body.
Warm-Up and Stretching
Unlike other exercise classes, your Pilates session won’t start with a specific warm-up. At your first class, we do smaller exercises that introduce you to the basic principles before we dive in, but in subsequent classes we’ll usually start with the Hundred, an exercise that helps you check in with where your body is starting. It shows your instructor what your body needs, where you might be a little stiff or struggling, and helps determine where the class needs to focus.
Since every exercise is a full-body exercise designed to support, strengthen, and mobilize your body, we don’t need to do a specialized warm-up. Your body will warm up with the well-designed flow of the exercises!
Expect a variety of exercises (in all planes of movement) that target different muscle groups, focusing on increasing flexibility and mobility.
Core Strengthening Exercises
Pilates is renowned for its emphasis on core strength. You'll engage in a series of exercises that target your abdominal muscles, upper & lower back, glutes, and pelvic floor (all part of your “core”). These exercises help improve posture, stability, and overall strength.
Use of Props (Optional) & Modifications
Depending on the class and instructor, you may use props such as resistance bands, small balls, or Pilates rings (magic circles) to add variety and challenge to your workout. Props can assist with alignment, deepen stretches, and intensify certain exercises.
Modifications are extremely important, and sometimes they’re accessible with a prop (like a yoga block, pillow, or towel). If your instructor suggests a modification, it’s not because you’re “bad” at the exercise, it’s to make the exercise more accessible for YOUR body and its unique needs. The exercises aren’t to look pretty; they’re to connect with your body in a specific way. Sometimes that looks different in different people!
Mind-Body Connection
Throughout the class, you'll be encouraged to focus on your mind-body connection. Pilates emphasizes mindful movement, where every exercise is performed with intention and control. This approach not only enhances physical benefits but also promotes mental clarity and relaxation. It’s not relaxing during, but you’ll discover how well you can relax afterward!
If you struggle with body awareness, this can be challenging to start, but you’ll discover your body will do so much more when you can focus into being present to it in every movement.
End of Class
Towards the end of the class, you'll transition into a final phase that centers you and solidifies the work in your body. This may involve standing exercises, gentle stretches, or revisiting of initial exercises to discover how much more connected you are. I love to end group class with a self-hug and a pat on the back, because we all deserve a little acknowledgement for our efforts!
Your class will leave you feeling taller, more centered, rejuvenated, and with ‘that Pilates feeling’ that you just can’t describe.
Instruction
Instructors provide general guidance and corrections throughout the class to ensure you're performing exercises correctly and safely. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if you're unsure about a movement or technique.
For more personalized instruction, consider private sessions. They help you find your own unique connections and hold you more accountable to deepening your practice.
Post-Class Reflection
At the end of group class, depending on size, it’s great to consider what exercises you feel you did well, what exercises you struggled with that you’d like to work on in future classes, and to take a moment to reflect on how you feel physically and mentally.
You may notice improved posture, increased energy levels, or a sense of calmness and well-being. These initial impressions can motivate you to continue your Pilates practice and explore its many benefits further.
Your first Pilates mat class is an opportunity to learn, grow, and discover a new approach to fitness and wellness. Embrace the experience with an open mind and a willingness to challenge yourself at your own pace. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and your journey with Pilates is uniquely yours.
So, are you ready to roll out your mat and embark on this empowering journey? Your body and mind will thank you for it!
Xo, Kimberly
Experience the transformative power of this mindful movement firsthand. Join me for your first class and discover the joy of Pilates!
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