{"id":305338,"date":"2025-11-21T14:59:19","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T14:59:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/305338\/"},"modified":"2025-11-21T14:59:19","modified_gmt":"2025-11-21T14:59:19","slug":"5-simple-tips-a-pilates-instructor-wants-every-beginner-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/305338\/","title":{"rendered":"5 simple tips a Pilates instructor wants every beginner to know"},"content":{"rendered":"

Whether you\u2019re heading to your first studio class or planning to follow along with videos at home, starting Pilates can feel a little daunting. Even after trying a handful of classes over the years, I still often feel like a beginner myself.<\/p>\n

To settle any uncertainty and clear up a few common misconceptions, I spoke to certified Pilates instructor Charlotte Marsh, who shared the key things she wants every newcomer to know before stepping onto the mat.<\/p>\n

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Speaking of mats, we at Tom\u2019s Guide have thoroughly tried and tested the best yoga mats<\/a> to help you find one that suits your space, budget and practice. So if you\u2019re ready to begin, here are the simple tips Marsh’s recommends for total newcomers.<\/p>\n

Best picks for you<\/p>\n

1. Match your goals with a style of Pilates<\/p>\n

Pilates comes in a lot of flavors, so it helps to know what you\u2019re looking for. Classical Pilates is the most traditional style; it follows the original method created by Joseph Pilates, a German physical trainer who developed the practice in the early 1900s. It uses all the classic studio equipment you\u2019ve probably seen people use on Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Contemporary Pilates takes the original ideas of Joseph Pilates and updates them using modern exercise science. In practice, this often means the movements look and feel a little more flexible and creative than traditional Pilates.<\/p>\n

Then you\u2019ve got the fitness-focused options. These include mat classes, reformer classes, Hot Pilates, Megaformer workouts and Pilates with weights. I even tried a Rowformer class<\/a> once, which combines Pilates and rowing into one very spicy session. They usually feel more like a more intense workout than a slow, controlled practice.<\/p>\n

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(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n

If you feel more comfortable starting at home, you are spoiled for choice with online trainers that share routines for free. Move With Nicole<\/a> offers simple routines you can follow without equipment, and I\u2019ve found Gemma Folklard\u2019s<\/a> Instagram workouts really helpful. She even adapts Reformer-style exercises so you can try them on a basic mat.<\/p>\n

Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.<\/p>\n

Before you pick a class or video, think about what you want from it. Do you want calm and control, strength building, or something that feels fast-paced and sweaty? As Marsh says, \u201cYour goals really matter when choosing where to begin.\u201d<\/p>\n

2. Get familiar with neutral spine, core engagement and breathing<\/p>\n

Core engagement is one of the trickiest things for beginners to get right. Different teachers might explain it in slightly different ways, so Marsh advises not to overthink it at first.<\/p>\n

The idea is to gently activate your deep abdominal muscles so that they are ready to support your movements. Think lift, not clench. You want your core active, not stiff.<\/p>\n

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Breathing works hand in hand with this. Pilates uses a rib-expanding breath pattern that lets your body move more freely and helps you feel calmer. Coordinating your breath with your core and spine makes exercises safer and more effective.<\/p>\n

But you might not relate to any of that advice until you are actually giving Pilates a go. So, Marsh says when you do step onto the mat, just \u201cFollow your teacher\u2019s guidance and you\u2019ll eventually find what feels right for your own body.”<\/p>\n

3. Choose clothes that let you move freely<\/p>\n

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(Image credit: Getty Images)<\/p>\n

You\u2019ll roll, twist, lift, circle, bend and stretch, so choose clothes that move with you. I\u2019ve learned the hard way that the leggings and sports bras I wear for running aren\u2019t always the best choice here.<\/p>\n

Softer, stretchier fabrics feel far more comfortable. Avoid anything that digs in or rides up. A top you can tuck in helps during movements where your body inverts, and some studios may ask you to wear grippy socks and tie your hair back.<\/p>\n

Marsh says comfort matters more than most beginners realize. \u201cWear something that lets you move freely so you can focus on the exercises instead of adjusting your outfit,\u201d she says. \u201cYou want to feel secure, supported and able to breathe, especially when the movements get more challenging.\u201d<\/p>\n

4. No pressure, it\u2019s a practice<\/p>\n

Pilates was originally called Contrology, so the aim isn\u2019t to hold a pretty pose for Instagram. It is all about controlled, continuous movement. You\u2019ll flow from one exercise to the next, so drop any expectation of perfection.<\/p>\n

Marsh says that Pilates should feel mindful and intentional rather than stiff or static. She wants anyone trying it out for the first time to know that they are learning a skill, not passing a performance exam.<\/p>\n

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(Image credit: Getty Images)5. Everyone starts as a beginner<\/p>\n

If your class offers beginner, intermediate and advanced options, choose the one that actually fits your level. No one earns a medal for jumping into the deep end. Pilates skills build gradually with repetition and body awareness, so permit yourself to take the beginner path. You will progress much faster with good foundations than with ego-driven shortcuts.<\/p>\n

Marsh adds, \u201cThe most important thing is consistency and listening to your body. Everyone moves at their own pace, and there is no shame in starting with the basics. Celebrate small wins along the way. Even mastering a single movement correctly is progress.\u201d<\/p>\n

More from Tom’s Guide<\/p>\n

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