First Time Taking a Pilates Lesson or Class

First of all, congrats! This is the first step to a healthier and happier mind and body! Pilates is more than an exercise method it is a transformative experience that will take you on a special journey. Whether you are active or are looking to get into more of a fitness routine, Pilates will benefit you in many, many ways including creating more uniform development throughout all your muscles, reduce tension and stress, tone and strengthen your core, and help you be more present and graceful in everyday life.

Brief History of Pilates

Since you have already signed up or are thinking about it, you probably know a little bit about Pilates. Pilates was developed by its namesake, Joseph Pilates, in the early 1890s in Germany. Formerly known as Contrology, this increasingly popular exercise method was developed to create a trinity of mind, body, and spirit through daily performance of precise, controlled, and effective movements that will result in physical well-being, mental calm, and spiritual peace. Joe believed he was fifty years ahead of his time when he started teaching his work to the public and at Mogo we whole heartedly agree!

What You Need to Know as a First Time Pilates Client

Arrive to the studio approximately 10-15 minutes early to check in and sign the appropriate paperwork. This usually entails an intake form asking for contact information and physical or medical history. Most studios have a liability waiver which is a customary procedure for all athletic/fitness operations.

Your Pilates teacher will introduce themselves to you if you haven’t met before and briefly review your intake form. This is the opportune time to share any injuries, illnesses, concerns, or questions. This ensures that there is open communication but also gives the teacher the appropriate information to build a mutually beneficial fitness program for you.

What to Wear to First Pilates Class or Lesson

If you haven’t arrived in proper workout gear, ask to change in the rest area or changing room. We do get a lot of questions about what proper Pilates wear is. There are many choices but the best recommendation:

Athletic tights or compression shorts under workout shorts for men.

Tank top or t -shirt that is comfortable but not too loose will help the teacher see various movements easier.
Hair: If you have long hair, pull it back in either a low or high pony tail as you may lay down on your back with your head down and it could get in the way.
Socks: The studio will share if it requires socks or specific shoes but most are sockless and bare feet are best to feel and utilize the equipment.
Do not wear anything with zippers or clasps/buttons as it could damage the equipment and potentially hurt you during various exercises.
Another friendly reminder is to avoid wearing any perfumes or lotions as smells can affect others in the studio and the oils can also stain the equipment.

Stay Positive and Have an Open Mind

Whether your first experience with Pilates is with us or at another studio, we wish you all the best and encourage you to go in with an open mind to all that Pilates can give you and how it can benefit your life!

If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Our goal as your Pilates teacher is to make you feel comfortable and give you the opportunity to be as successful as possible with your Pilates program. We hope to see you in the studio soon!