Pilates Beginner Guide (A Gentle Pep Talk)

Let's Talk About Nerves

It wouldn't be a Pilates Beginner Guide if we didn't talk about nerves. Almost everyone I know who loves Pilates now had the same quiet fears at the beginning:

• What if I don’t know the moves?
• What if I look awkward?
• What if the reformer launches me into orbit?
• What if I’m not “Pilates” enough?

Here’s the truth no one says loudly enough:
Beginners are expected. Pilates instructors are trained for beginners. You are not interrupting the flow of the studio by being new – you are the reason it exists.

And no, you are not going to fall off the machine. (You are lying down for most of it. Truly.) So grab your leggings (my faves are here and here) and let's talk about the session itself.

What Pilates Actually Feels Like (At First)

Pilates doesn’t usually hit you with loud music or adrenaline. It’s quieter than that. More internal with many teachers talking about “mind-body connection”. Classic studios will give you the mental space to do that.

You’ll hear other cues like:

• “Draw the ribs in”
• “Anchor your pelvis”
• “Move slowly”
• “Breathe”

At first, you may think: Am I even doing anything? And then the next day you’ll wake up and realize muscles you forgot existed are very much alive.

Pilates is sneaky strength. The kind that builds from the inside out.

How to Try Pilates Without Overwhelming Yourself

You don’t have to dive in headfirst. In fact, I recommend easing in intentionally.

1. Try a community class

Many studios offer community classes at a lower price point, often slower-paced and more welcoming to beginners.

Why this helps:

• Lower pressure
• Lower cost
• More beginners in the room
• A chance to feel the vibe without commitment

2. Book a one-on-one (or small group) session

If the idea of a full group class makes your chest tighten, a private session can be an incredible starting point. This is how I started, and it helped me familiarize myself with the reformer tremendously before joining more economical group classes.

A good instructor will:

• Explain the machine
• Adjust you gently
• Help you understand why you’re doing what you’re doing
• Build confidence fast

Think of it as learning the language before joining the conversation.

3. Don’t overthink the “right” studio

There is no universally perfect Pilates studio.

Some feel more athletic.
Some feel more classical.
Some feel cozy and intimate.

What matters most is that you feel safe enough to come back.

Let’s Debunk the Pilates Stereotypes

Myth: Pilates is only for dancers and influencers
Truth: Pilates is for people who want to feel better in their bodies – full stop.

Myth: You need to be flexible
Truth: You go to Pilates to become more mobile and supported.

Myth: Everyone else knows what they’re doing
Truth: Everyone is concentrating too hard on their own body to judge yours.

Myth: It’s not “hard enough”
Truth: Pilates can be deceptively challenging and deeply effective.

What You’re Really Practicing (Beyond the Workout)

Pilates isn’t just about abs or posture. It’s about:

• Slowing down
• Paying attention
• Rebuilding trust with your body
• Learning to move with intention instead of punishment
• Ultimately, self-care

Especially if you’ve spent years in hustle mode, Pilates can feel like a radical shift. Less “push.” More support.

A Small Permission Slip

You’re allowed to:

• Be new
• Ask questions
• Modify
• Take breaks
• Decide it’s not for you
• Or fall completely in love with it

Trying Pilates for the first time isn’t about doing it perfectly.
It’s about showing up curious instead of critical.

And if you’re nervous? That usually means you’re right on the edge of something good.

I'd love to hear your experience as a beginner – share your stories below!