Pilates exercises may seem unusual and difficult for first-timers, but understanding and doing them lets you experience several benefits beyond your usual workout.

Regular Pilates can strengthen your core, improve your posture, and help build long, lean muscles without putting stress on your joints. It can help loosen things up when you have back pain, tight hips, or stiff shoulders while making you stronger.

By joining a Pilates class in Dubai, you can also improve your mental health. The exercises involve concentrating on your breath, your alignment, and how each movement feels, which helps you feel calm and energized.

As a result, you’ll feel less stressed and anxious while improving your mental focus.

Whether you already have a fitness regimen or are just starting one, consider including Pilates for a low-impact workout that offers great results.

Getting Ready for Your First Pilates Class

If you’ve recently signed up for a Pilates class, below are some tips to help you prepare and experience its benefits from the start:

1. Know what to wear and bring for class.

You don’t need fancy gear for Pilates, but what you wear and bring can help you feel comfortable throughout the session.

Choose fitted, stretchy clothes that are not too loose or baggy. Your instructor needs to see your form to guide you properly; the extra fabric can get in the way during moves.

It’s recommended to go for a pair of leggings or bike shorts and a snug tank top or shirt.

You don’t need shoes for the class since Pilates is usually done barefoot or in grip socks, which help prevent slipping on the mat or equipment.

Also, check with the studio to see if they provide mats. Some do, but others expect you to bring your own.

Remember to bring a water bottle because you might get thirsty, even if the workout is low-impact. You can refill it at the studio if you need more.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring a towel if you tend to sweat a lot. Bring a change of clothes if you plan to shower after class. It’s also best not to wear jewelry when going to the studio.

2. Drink plenty of water and eat something light before your class.

If you want to eat something before your Pilates class, opt for a light meal or snack and do it an hour or two before the session. Doing so ensures you digest and convert food into energy, avoid uneasiness, and help you perform the exercises comfortably.

Eat a vegetable salad, fruits, yogurt, and other easily digestible foods that give you energy. A small fruit smoothie can also tide you over and keep you energized until your class ends.  

Also, drink water before the class, but avoid taking large amounts to prevent discomfort.

3. Arrive early.

Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your class to fill out any paperwork and see the room. This will also give you time to speak with the instructor.

The extra 15 minutes allows you to check your phone and turn it off before the class starts.

Take the time to tell the instructor about any injuries or health issues you have that may affect your movements. By doing so, they can make adjustments to ensure you don’t get hurt or feel discomfort during the class.

You may even want to talk to the instructor about other classes you may take, such as Lagree in Dubai, a workout that expands the concepts of Pilates. This exercise method is performed on a Megaformer that lets you combine weightlifting, strength resistance, and flexibility training.  

Arriving early also ensures you have time to change into your workout outfit (if you plan to) and warm up.

4. Warm up properly.

Jumping straight into Pilates without warming up can leave your muscles stiff and your movements less effective. As such, do some warm-up exercises before the class.

A proper warm-up doesn’t have to be long or intense. Try five to 10 minutes of light cardio, such as a brisk walk or dynamic stretches.

If you're walking to the studio, that can double as your warm-up. Remember to avoid sitting still for too long before class begins.

The goal is to get your blood flowing and joints loosened so you're not starting cold. A warm body moves better and is less prone to injury.

5. Prepare for the class mentally.

Remember that Pilates is a mental workout, too, so going to the class with the right mindset can make the first one smoother. Start by leaving distractions at the door, including your phone.

Pilates asks you to focus on small, controlled movements, proper breathing, and body awareness. This won’t come easily if there are plenty of thoughts running around your head.

To reduce this, give yourself a few minutes before class to breathe deeply, ground yourself, and get into a more mindful state. If you're nervous because it’s your first class, inform your instructor so that they can give you tips to overcome your anxiety.

When you have a calm, open mindset, you can pick things up quicker and get more out of your first class.

Preparing for your first Pilates class is more about showing up with intention. Give yourself the space to learn, move, and enjoy the workout to get more out of it than you expect.