What to Wear to Pilates: What to Bring to Your First Class

If you’re going to Pilates for the first time, one of the most practical questions is what to wear and what to bring. The good news is that you don’t need to prepare much.

The right Pilates outfit only needs to meet three basic requirements: it should be comfortable, allow you to move freely, and make it easy for your instructor to observe your alignment and movement during the session.

What Should You Wear to Pilates?

Pilates doesn’t require a complicated dress code. You can wear your usual activewear as long as you can move comfortably through exercises performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing.

Very loose clothing may not be ideal because it can get in the way during certain exercises and make it more difficult for your instructor to see how your body is moving.

At the same time, you don’t need to wear extremely tight clothing if that makes you uncomfortable. What matters most is choosing something that fits well and allows you to feel confident throughout your session.

How to Choose the Right Pilates Outfit

What Top Should You Wear?

You can choose a sports bra, tank top, fitted T-shirt or long-sleeve activewear top depending on your personal preference.

Look for breathable, stretchy materials that stay relatively secure while you move, especially during exercises where you lie down or bring your arms overhead.

If your top is very loose, it may roll up or fall towards your face during exercises such as planks, bridges or inversions.

Leggings or Workout Bottoms

Leggings are a popular choice because they stay close to the body and are less likely to get in the way when using a Reformer.

Biker shorts or other fitted workout bottoms can also work well if you find them more comfortable.

For exercises involving straps, the footbar or wider leg movements, very loose trousers may occasionally catch on the equipment or require frequent adjustments during your workout.

Choose Clothes That Fit Well but Still Feel Comfortable

Pilates involves a lot of controlled movement and frequent changes in body position.

Your clothing should therefore be fitted enough for your instructor to observe the position of your knees, hips, shoulders and pelvis, while still offering enough stretch to move without restriction.

There’s no need to follow a specific “Pilates outfit” aesthetic. The best outfit is simply one that allows you to focus on your movement instead of constantly adjusting your clothes.

Do You Need to Wear Shoes for Pilates?

Usually, no.

Most Pilates classes are performed barefoot or in grip socks, particularly during Reformer and Mat Pilates sessions.

Training without shoes allows your feet to make direct contact with the equipment or mat, which can make it easier to feel your foot placement and how you distribute pressure through your feet.

If your studio has its own footwear policy, simply follow its guidelines before your session.

Do You Need Grip Socks for Pilates?

Grip socks aren’t always mandatory, but they can be a convenient option for Reformer Pilates.

The soles usually feature silicone grips that provide additional traction when your feet are placed on the carriage, footbar or other equipment surfaces. For beginners, this extra grip may also provide a little more confidence during certain exercises.

Some studios require grip socks for hygiene or safety reasons, so it’s worth checking before your first visit.

If you don’t already own a pair, however, you don’t necessarily need to buy them before your first class if the studio allows you to practise barefoot.

What Should You Avoid Wearing to Pilates?

Certain types of clothing or accessories can make your Pilates session less comfortable:

• Very loose or long trousers that may catch on equipment

• Oversized tops that can roll up when lying down or bending

• Clothing with large zippers, hard buttons or bulky details

• Long jewellery or accessories that may get in the way

• Very thick fabrics that don’t breathe well

• Clothing that needs to be constantly adjusted while moving

If you have long hair, it’s also a good idea to tie it back so it doesn’t get in the way when you’re lying on the carriage or performing exercises involving the head and shoulders.

What Should You Bring to a Pilates Class?

A Pilates session at a studio generally doesn’t require many personal items.

You may want to bring:

• A water bottle

• Grip socks if required by the studio

• A small towel if needed

• A hair tie

• Your phone for check-in or managing your class booking

• A change of clothes if you’re heading to work or somewhere else after your session

The main equipment, including Reformers, mats, balls and Pilates rings, is usually provided by the studio.

If this is your first Reformer session, you can also read what beginners should know before starting Reformer Pilates to get a better idea of what to expect.

Checklist for Your First Pilates Class

Before leaving home, here’s a quick checklist:

What to Prepare	Recommendation
Clothing	Comfortable, fitted and stretchy activewear
Shoes	Usually not required
Socks	Grip socks if required by the studio
Water	Bring your own water bottle
Jewellery	Remove pieces that may get in the way
Hair	Tie back long hair
Arrival time	Arrive a few minutes early for your first session
Food	Avoid eating a very large meal immediately before your workout

If you’re unsure about what to eat around your workout, you can also explore what to eat before and after Pilates for some practical suggestions.

What Happens During Your First Pilates Class?

Your instructor will usually begin by asking about your exercise experience, goals and anything they should be aware of before the session starts.

You’ll then be introduced to the equipment, basic positioning and some fundamental Pilates principles, such as breathing, core engagement and controlled movement.

As a beginner, you don’t need to keep up with people who have been practising Pilates for much longer. Your first session is mainly an opportunity to understand your body, become familiar with the exercises and discover an appropriate level of challenge.

If you’re still deciding which type of Pilates to try, you can read more about the differences between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates before choosing your class.

Start Your Pilates Journey at Aurise Pilates Club

Your first Pilates session doesn’t require complicated preparation. A comfortable outfit, a little time to get familiar with the exercises and an open mind towards trying a new form of movement are more than enough.

At Aurise Pilates Club, beginners are guided through the fundamentals step by step, making it easier to become familiar with the studio, equipment and a workout pace that suits you.

Inbox Aurise for a consultation and book your Pilates session in District 1.