5 tips to start off your Pilates journey
Pilates has been rising in popularity, partly due to social media. But we’re not to mad about it. Pilates is a fantastic way to move your body and clear your mind at the same time. You get to strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall body awareness. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast and looking to mix things up or a complete beginner, Pilates offers a balanced workout that benefits both your mind and body.
Starting something new can feel a bit overwhelming, so here are five tips to help you kickstart your Pilates journey with confidence.
1. Find a Guidance
Pilates is all about precision and control, and having the guidance of an instructor or a book can make all the difference, especially for beginners who may not know where to start. While you can search for certified Pilates classes in your area, many people prefer to begin their journey independently as they explore this new form of exercise.
In-person classes can often be costly and may not be accessible to everyone. However, learning the correct techniques from the outset is crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing the benefits of each movement. Therefore, we recommend several online platforms and books that provide beginner-friendly Pilates classes led by experienced instructors. This way, you can embark on your Pilates journey at your own pace. Just be sure to select a resource that aligns with your current fitness level. Now you’re ready to get started!
2. Start Slow and Build Gradually
It's tempting to dive right into a full Pilates routine, but it's important to start slow and allow your body time to adjust. Pilates exercises often look simple, but they require a lot of control, strength, and focus. Begin with beginner-level classes or shorter sessions that introduce the basic movements and principles, such as breathing, alignment, and core engagement.
As you progress, you can gradually incorporate more advanced exercises and longer workouts into your routine. Remember, consistency is more important than intensity when it comes to building a solid Pilates foundation.
3. Practice Mind-Body Connection
Pilates is as much a mental workout as it is a physical one. Focusing on the mind-body connection—the awareness of how your body moves and feels—is key to performing each movement with precision and control. Unlike workouts that rely on brute strength, Pilates encourages you to move with intention and mindfulness.
Take your time to fully understand each exercise, tune into your breathing, and feel how your muscles are working. This mindful approach will not only improve your performance but also help you get the most out of each session, enhancing both your mental clarity and body awareness.
4. Focus on Your Core
A tip to fulfill your mind-body connection is focussing on your core. One of the fundamental principles of Pilates is core strength—often referred to as your "powerhouse." This doesn’t just mean your abs, but the entire network of muscles that support your spine and pelvis, including your lower back, glutes, and pelvic floor. It’s essential to engage your core in every exercise to build stability and improve overall strength. Engaging your core can also help you with you mind to muscle connection.
Start off with basic core activation exercises like the following:
Pelvic tilts
Bridges
Leg lifts on the stomach and back
As you become more comfortable, you'll see how Pilates movements work to strengthen your most inner muscles.
5. Be Patient and Stay Consistent
Like any other fitness journey, Pilates requires patience and consistency. You may not notice drastic changes right away, but over time, you'll start to see improvements in your posture, flexibility, core strength, and overall well-being. Stick to a regular routine, even if it’s just two session a week, and celebrate your progress—no matter how small.
Don’t get discouraged if some exercises feel challenging at first. Pilates is designed to be progressive, meaning you'll grow stronger with each practice, and exercises that once felt tough will eventually become easier.
