What to Wear to Pilates
The clothing that is often worn in Pilates class environments should match the modus operandi of the “mind-body” concept. Your clothing choice should be one that allows you to feel free, commission deep breathing, and heighten awareness of your spatial capacity.
Clothing choices can and will determine what type of Pilates experience you have, so be sure to thoroughly think through what type of active wear would be most appropriate. Since some of the movements will incorporate your fullest range of motion, it is best that you are comfortable and able to complete all positions with ease. Room temperature, activity level, age, and ability are also factors in the type of clothing you choose. Light, cotton clothes are recommended, since they tend to be the most comfortable. Wearing something that makes you feel relaxed will create a basis for your workout and may result in a more effective workout.
Clothing that allows for movement and “breathe-ability” is crucial. Pants should have quite a bit of stretch in them, since a lot of Pilates movements will require lengthening of the body and deep stretching. Make sure that the waistband isn’t too tight and that nothing impedes your ability to bend or uncurl at the waist such as drawstrings, zippers, buttons, or Velcro. Elastic-waisted Capri exercise pants are ideal because they allow for flexibility in the abdomen and free up the lower calf and ankle. Having legs that are independent of material is important for a safe and productive Pilates session, especially if machine “straps” are implemented.
Tight or snug fitting T-shirts, razor back, or sleeveless tops work best for Pilates since it gives the arms freedom to utilize the full rotation of the shoulder while keeping the body aware of its position. Oversized shirts or pants are not recommended since they can be cumbersome and dangerous when trying to execute most machine exercises and even can get in the way of some mat-based routines. Big clothing also makes it easier for students to “cheat”, since the main focus of your Pilates instructor will be to assess your form. If they can not see the line of your body they will not be able to ensure that you are getting the most out of your workout, nor if you are putting yourself in a position for injury.
Shoes are not worn, and most like to practice Pilates barefoot. However socks can be worn if preferred. Sometimes regular cotton socks can be too slippery for some of the machine surfaces and mat work. An option to consider is “Toesox”. “Toesox” have a “non-slip sole”, that allow for better grip, control and balance. This is a popular choice for those who love the comfort of socks, but want the dexterity of being barefoot.
For Pilates clothing there are thousands of choices online. Some recommendations would be Rese Pilates Activewear, We Pilates, Savana Spirit, as well as a publication called Pilates Style magazine that has further choices and provides links to choose what kind of clothing best suits you.