I cannot believe how much I love Pilates. As a runner for 20+ years, I honestly rolled my eyes when my friends would rave about how hard their pilates classes... The post What to Wear to a Pilates Class (Cute Outfit Ideas) appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

I cannot believe how much I love Pilates. As a runner for 20+ years, I honestly rolled my eyes when my friends would rave about how hard their pilates classes were. I figured there was just no way it was that hard, especially when I thought about how sweaty and worn out I was after a hard run or a Crossfit class. But then, 6 months postpartum with my first and still struggling to feel normal again on my runs, I decided to give Pilates a try. I heard great things about how it could help your pelvic floor, (which was one of the main things I was trying to rehab while I was postpartum), and my pelvic floor therapist gave me the green light to start going to classes a few times a week. Let me tell you– it was humbling. I had NO idea how hard (and great) it was going to be!

All of this to say, pilates is no joke, and I tell everyone I know that I wish I had started taking pilates classes YEARS ago. I can’t believe how strong I’ve gotten in my core. Here’s a short reel that shows you a little bit of a recent Pilates class I took if you– like me– have no idea what a Pilates reformer class entails.

When I first started Pilates, I wasn’t sure what to wear. I wanted to be comfortable and stylish, but I also needed clothes that allowed me to move freely and stay focused. Through trial and error, I’ve found that the right outfit makes a huge difference in how I feel during class. If you’re new to Pilates, here’s what I recommend wearing and bringing to your session.

What to Wear to a Pilates Class (Cute Outfit Ideas)

You’ll generally want to wear fitted workout apparel to pilates, especially if you are taking a Pilates reformer class. The tight clothes ensure nothing gets caught on the ropes or equipment, and having a tighter shirt, in particular, helps me stay focused on keeping my core engaged, which is a critical part of a Pilates workout.

Low-impact Sports Bras

Since Pilates is a low-impact workout, I opt for a low-impact sports bra with adjustable straps and soft, breathable fabric. Underwires can be uncomfortable, so I stick with spandex-blend or cotton-blend bras that provide gentle support. I love how these allow me to move freely without feeling restricted. This Flow Y Bra in Lululemon’s Nulu fabric is a perfect choice and I also love this Like a Cloud Longline Bra.

As a runner and former cross-fitter with a larger bust, I was used to wearing sports bras with lots of support (like the SheFit running bras – review here), and wearing a more comfortable bra to pilates has been so lovely. There’s no need to strap everything down so tight in Pilates classes. That’s not to say that you can’t wear your regular workout bras (I did for months when I first started!), but you may want to opt for something more comfortable that’s a little more stretchy.

If you have a large bust but still want a low to medium-support sports bra, opt for the Lululemon Energy Longline Bra.

Fitted tanks

Pilates classes typically call for many props, so I prefer to wear a fitted top rather than a loose t-shirt so that nothing gets in my way. You don’t want loose fabric to catch on the reformer machine. Another reason to wear form-fitting clothing is so that you can check your form in the mirror and ensure your core is engaged. A lot of pilates workouts are made up of tiny movements that require very specific form, and form-fitting clothing will help ensure you’re doing everything correctly.

My favorite fitted tanks also act as sports bras since they’re padded. My top picks are the Lululemon Align Tank (or this Amazon look for less that I own and love). I also love the Lululemon Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank Top for a non-cropped tank option. This Frame Top from Left on Friday is another go-to of mine. Be sure to grab the matching leggings for a cute set.

Leggings

For the same reason as above, you’ll want to stick to fitted leggings rather than loose shorts when it comes to pilates. I always go with a high-waisted pair because they have full coverage and allow me to move more freely without having to adjust my outfit during class.

My favorites are the Lululemon Align leggings or this pair of HeyNuts Workout Pro leggings from Amazon. I also just tried this pair from Set Active, and they might be taking the place of my Align leggings for my #1 favorites. The fit and compression is next level.

Fitted shorts

Sometimes, I prefer shorts over leggings, especially in warmer weather. I always go for fitted styles like biker shorts or compression shorts, so they stay in place and don’t roll up during movements. Loose shorts can be distracting, so I avoid those when I know I’ll be doing a lot of legwork. I really like the Align shorts from Lululemon, and this pair of biker shorts from Amazon for a more affordable option. My personal preference is leggings, but you’ll see both in class.

Socks

You may do class barefoot, or your pilates studio may require that you wear socks with grips on the bottom since they help with stability. You can usually buy a pair before class as your studio, but you’ll save money by ordering a pair from Amazon. There are lots of options, and it’s all up to personal preference. I have friends who like regular socks with grips, but I prefer the toe-less pilates sock option.

Water Bottle

You WILL want one. I know everyone raves about the Stanley cups, but I have to say, I like the Owala water bottle from Amazon better. It’s lighter and slimmer, and it never leaks. The straw is also internal, which is much more sanitary.

Where to Buy Workout Sets

I’ve tested a lot of brands to find the best workout sets for Pilates. Here are my favorites:

Quince

Quince is my go-to for affordable, high-quality activewear. Their Ultra-Form High-Rise Legging and sports bras are super comfortable, breathable, and durable, and they don’t break the bank.

Left on Friday

I mentioned Left On Friday above, but they’re actually known for swimwear and just recently branched into activewear. I’ve been blown away by the set I have! The compression is next level and the set is by far my most flattering. I want to snag it in more colors. This Frame Top is my favorite top and I wear the matching leggings with it.

Lululemon

I love Lululemon’s Align leggings—they’re buttery soft, lightweight, and perfect for Pilates movements. Their sports bras and tanks provide great coverage and support without restricting movement.

Beyond Yoga

Beyond Yoga makes some of the softest workout clothes I’ve ever worn. Their leggings and tops have a second-skin feel, making them ideal for Pilates sessions where flexibility and comfort are key. The only note I have is that their clothes are so soft and stretchy that they lack the same compression I’m used to with tank tops and leggings.

Alo

Alo Yoga combines function and fashion, and their pieces transition seamlessly from the studio to everyday wear. Their leggings, tanks, and bras are designed for movement, offering flexibility and breathability.

Amazon

Believe it or not, I’ve become quite the Amazon workout gear fanatic. I’ve had great success with CRZ Yoga, an Amazon brand, and HeyNuts, another Amazon brand. I find that the quality of both brands is about 90% as good as Lululemon, but for a fraction of the cost.

Bottom Line

Like I mentioned at the very beginning of this post, I wish I hadn’t knocked pilates for so long. Now, I can’t recommend it quickly enough! If you’re local to Winston Salem, consider joining BodyMind Studio–they’re the best!

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