What Is Pilates? Benefits, What to Expect & How to Get Started

Steph Hammond

5 hours ago

6 min read

Thinking about trying Pilates but not quite sure what to expect?

Maybe you've heard how good Pilates can be for your body, but you're wondering whether you'll be able to keep up, whether you need to be flexible or even what actually happens in a Pilates class!

Don't worry, I've been there too!

When I first discovered Pilates, I had plenty of questions, so I thought I'd put together a little guide to answer some of the things I'm most often asked by people thinking about giving it a go.

From what Pilates actually is and how it can benefit your body, to choosing the right class and getting started, hopefully this will help put your mind at ease.

And remember, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start Pilates. That's what your teacher is there for!

What IS Pilates?

Pilates is a method of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates, originally known as Contrology.

It's designed to help you develop strength, flexibility, coordination and better body awareness through controlled, purposeful movements.

But Pilates isn't just about strengthening your core or stretching your muscles. It's about learning how your body moves, improving control and getting everything working together more efficiently.

Pilates can be practised on a mat or using specialist apparatus such as the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair and Barrels.

And while you might see lots of Reformer classes popping up everywhere, there's actually a whole Pilates system to explore!

Whether you're a complete beginner or have been exercising for years, the exercises can be adapted to suit your experience and ability.

What Should I Expect in My First Pilates Class?

Firstly, don't panic! Nobody expects you to know what you're doing when you walk into your first Pilates class.

In a Mat Pilates class, you'll usually work through a series of exercises designed to develop strength, control, mobility and coordination.

Many exercises are performed on the floor, so if getting down onto a mat is difficult for you, it's worth speaking to the teacher beforehand. A private session or a class using suitable apparatus may be a better starting point.

One thing that makes good Pilates teaching different from simply following a workout is the attention to how you're moving.

Your teacher should be observing, guiding and helping you understand the exercises, rather than expecting everyone to move in exactly the same way.

Personally, I'm a big believer in smaller classes where I can get to know my clients, see how they're moving and make adjustments when needed.

And please don't worry if you don't get everything right first time. Pilates takes practice, and that's all part of the journey!

What Are the Benefits of Pilates?

There are so many reasons people fall in love with Pilates, and they're not all about getting stronger abs!

Here are five of the benefits I love most:

1. Build Strength and Stability

Pilates works the whole body, helping you develop strength, particularly around your core, hips, back and shoulders. It's about building strength that supports the way you move in everyday life.

2. Improve Mobility and Flexibility

Feeling a little stiff? Pilates combines strength with controlled movement, helping you explore your range of motion and improve flexibility over time.

3. Develop Better Posture and Body Awareness

Pilates encourages you to become more aware of how you sit, stand and move. By improving strength, coordination and body awareness, you may find yourself moving with greater ease and confidence.

4. Support Your Back and Joints

Appropriately adapted Pilates can be helpful for some people managing ongoing back discomfort, particularly when exercises are tailored to their individual needs.

If you're dealing with an injury or medical condition, it's important to seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional and choose an experienced teacher.

5. Give Your Mind a Break!

One of my favourite things about Pilates is how much concentration it requires.

When you're focusing on your breathing, movement and control, there's often very little room to think about everything else going on in your day!

Many people find that they leave their class feeling calmer, more relaxed and a little more connected to their bodies.

Isn't Pilates Just for Women and Older People?

Absolutely NOT!

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about Pilates, and it always makes me smile.

Pilates is for men, women, younger people, older people, complete beginners and experienced athletes.

And don't be fooled into thinking that because some of the movements look slow and controlled, Pilates must be easy!

I've had plenty of clients, particularly men who are used to lifting weights or playing sport, who are genuinely surprised by just how challenging Pilates can be.

But that's the beauty of it. The exercises can be adapted, progressed and made more challenging as your strength, control and confidence improve.

Pilates really is for every body and everybody!

How Often Should I Do Pilates?

This is something I get asked all the time!

The answer really depends on your goals, your experience and what else you're doing.

If you're completely new to Pilates, starting with one class a week can be a great way to learn the basics and build your confidence.

If you can manage two or three sessions a week, fantastic! Regular practice gives you more opportunities to develop your strength, coordination and understanding of the exercises.

But don't feel you have to do Pilates every day to see benefits.

Consistency is far more important than doing loads one week and nothing for the next three!

And remember, Pilates works brilliantly alongside other activities such as walking, swimming, running and strength training.

Can Pilates Help Me Lose Weight?

Ah, the question everyone wants to know!

Pilates is a brilliant way to build strength, improve mobility and become more aware of how your body moves, but it isn't primarily designed as a weight-loss workout.

Weight management depends on lots of factors, including your overall activity levels, nutrition, sleep and individual circumstances.

For me, one of the biggest benefits of Pilates is helping people focus on what their bodies can DO rather than simply how they look.

Feeling stronger, moving better and having more confidence in your body? Those are pretty fantastic results in my book!

What's the difference between Yoga and Pilates?

Another question I get asked all the time!

Yoga and Pilates have quite a lot in common. Both encourage you to focus on your breathing, movement and body awareness, but they have different origins and approaches.

Pilates was developed as a method of physical conditioning, with an emphasis on strength, control, coordination and precise movement.

Yoga has a much longer history and can include physical postures, breathing practices, meditation and philosophical teachings, depending on the style.

Both can help develop strength, mobility, flexibility and a better connection between body and mind.

Personally, I think they can complement each other beautifully. You don't have to choose one or the other!

What should I look for in a Pilates Teacher?

Pilates instructor training can vary enormously, so it's worth doing a little research before choosing a class.

A good teacher should understand how the body moves, how to adapt exercises to suit different abilities and, most importantly, how to help you feel comfortable and confident.

Qualifications are important, of course, but so are experience, continued learning and having a good eye for movement.

I've spent years studying, practising, observing and learning, and I continue to develop my knowledge because I genuinely believe there's always more to learn!

Don't be afraid to ask about your teacher's training or experience. Finding someone you feel comfortable with can make all the difference.

You can read more about my own Pilates journey here

Ready to Give Pilates a Try? Here's Where to Start!

If you've made it this far and you're thinking Pilates might be for you, brilliant!

Whether you're completely new to exercise, returning after a break or simply looking for something different, there's no need to feel nervous about getting started.

At Steph Hammond Pilates in Ampthill, Bedfordshire, I love helping people discover what their bodies are capable of.

If you're unsure whether to start with Mat Pilates, apparatus classes or a private session, just get in touch. I'm always happy to help you find the right place to start.

Take a look at my New Here? Start Here page, explore the current class timetable or email me at info@stephhammondpilates.com.