subject: Thinking Pilates? Learn More About The Equipment You Need Now [print this page] Pilates is a great way to exercise your body and to build core strength. Fortunately, there are just a few requirements to get started.
It seems like everyone you know is talking about pilates. Maybe youve been hearing so much about pilates that youve decided that you want to look into this unique exercise program on your own. Or maybe the specialist at your occupational therapy clinic has recommended that you begin pilates workouts. Even so, you may be lost as to how to get started.
Most people will tell you that the best way to start pilates is to join a pilates studio. There you will be able to learn all of the basic movements that you should know, as well as some advanced movements if youre interested, and youll be able to also meet other people who can support you. But when it comes to equipment, no matter whether youre doing your workout in a pilates studio or at home, what do you need? These tips can help:
The Right Attire
It doesnt matter if youre doing your workout in a pilates studio, or if youre doing the workout at your home, you need to have the right type of clothing. Youll find lots of companies who sell clothing that they claim to be pilates or yoga clothing, and they charge a pretty penny for the pieces as well. But do you really need to spend that type of money on clothing just to exercise? The only requirement when it comes to pilates clothing is that you need to be able to have flexibility when youre working out. The clothing should be loose enough to give you movement and comfortable enough so that youre able to move around easily.
Soft, Thick Mats
The next thing that youll need is a mat. If you go to a pilates studio, youll be provided with a mat. These mats are there for the public to use and while they are cleaned after ever workout, it can be sort of gross to think about using a mat that someone else has just finished using. You do, however, have the option of using your own mat. Pilates mats are actually thicker than yoga mats. They need to be at least an inch and a half thick in order to provide the support and padding that you need during your workout. It can be very painful to roll around on a mat that isnt thick enough, so your workout investment dollars should be spent wisely here.
Exercise Balls
When youre working out at a pilates studio, you will have access to any exercise balls they have. When youre working out at home, if you want to use an exercise ball youll have to have your own. Exercise balls are a great way to increase your core strength, and fortunately, theyre fairly inexpensive to purchase and can be found in a variety of exercise stores.
Pilates is a wonderful way to exercise, and the required equipment and attire is minimal. Most experts believe that its a good idea to first take pilates lessons at a studio so that if you wish to go at it on your own, youll be well trained to do so.
