r/pilates May 14 '26

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios BEGINNER/NEWBIE THREAD 2026

61 Upvotes

Are you new to the subreddit? Do you recall that when you pressed "join," you got a popup advising you to read the rules, which are on the sidebar/top (browser/mobile), as well as a DM that also told you to read the rules, which, again, are on the sidebar/top? The first two are paramount: USE THE SEARCH FUNCTION and PARTICIPATE AND CONTRIBUTE BEFORE STARTING YOUR OWN POST. If you just joined the subreddit five seconds ago and tried to start a new post, that means you failed to follow those two rules. Your post was or will be deleted. You can only start a new post once you have amassed some community karma and shown yourself to be someone who understands what "community" means.

Full acknowledgment and ownership that I am being bitchy in the intro to this post. I'm really sad about the trend of aliteracy growing in the world and sick of receiving modmail that amounts to "I'm a special boy/girl/they; please let me break the rules because I couldn't be bothered to read them and I'm the special-est person." I promise in pretty much any other context, I am a warm and welcoming and quirky and nerdy person, but being bombarded with the same "I'm special and shouldn't have to follow the rules" message and refusal to read rules every day mounts up and wastes the (unpaid) time of the mod team. You think your message is unique because it's the first time you have written it; I promise it's not the first time the mod team has read it.

This sub, mod team included but especially the members, is full of highly knowledgeable and experienced Pilates practitioners, fans, and instructors who often gladly share their experience with newbies. It is honestly insulting to everyone who is already in this sub when you join, refuse to read the rules, and don't spend anytime perusing what is already available to you. This sub is a wealth of knowledge and resources, and you should treat it as such! It is not a personal advice forum; there are other places on Reddit for that. The leadership of the sub feels that consolidation of information and topics in a handful of threads is a better use of everyone's time than clogging up the feed with the same five questions over and over again.

Please use the search function. I promise you, you are not the first person to want to know what a good YouTube channel is for beginners or what "engage your core" means. Many people feel uncomfortable going to their first class; you should feel welcome and supported no matter your body, gender, disability, race, or religion, and if someone makes you feel otherwise, they are the problem, not you. You are not the first person to seek equipment recommendations. There will always be people who find hot Pilates fun and harmless and also people who hate it with the fire of a burning sun; you should do whatever you want that your doctor says is okay for you. Yes, instructor training is long and expensive, and there is a good reason for that. No, Lagree is not Pilates. Nobody cares about your thirst traps and we restrict posts that mention body measurements, calories, "toning," and similar diet culture-related concepts for good reason. There is nothing new under the sun! Search your question. Read the !wiki that we made expressly for you to find answers to your most commonly asked questions.

If you still cannot find an answer to your question or if any posts related to it are outdated, please, for the rest of 2026, POST YOUR QUESTION HERE. If you are an old head, please post your answers here and help a newbie or beginner out!

Rule exceptions for this post only:

  1. You are allowed to ask diet culture/weight loss/body comp/etc questions here even if it is not Wednesday. Wednesday rule still applies for all top-level posts.
  2. This is a thread for newbies and beginners, NOT a thread for "visit my new YouTube channel" or "buy from my new grip sock company." No self-promo. If you are answering a question, be judicious about self-promo--if someone says "name some good youtubes," don't spam every single one of those questions with "visit MY youtube I'm the best!" but feel free to be like "here are five that I like, and also I have one if you're interested."

r/pilates Dec 02 '25

Mod Post WIKI IS BACK BUT INCOMPLETE

25 Upvotes

Never fear, y'all! Your !wiki commands shall work once again...sort of. We are still working on redrafting the wiki, but I have reactivated it and put in stuff that I had personally drafted back in. Slowly but surely, we will add more and more so it resembles what it once was.

Confused about why we're doing this? See this post.


r/pilates 1h ago

*1ST OF MONTH* Promotional Post Inelia Garcia will be coming to NYC for the Contrology Program Intermediate Module, February 24-28, 2027

Upvotes

The Contrology Program is an advanced program for certified teachers. It covers the classical syllabus, teaching techniques, constructing the exercises, and building the student. There will also be discussion of injuries, anomalies, special populations, modifications, and variations. The Intermediate module will include the complete system of apparatus in Joseph Pilates’ method.

Inelia has maintained the legacy of the authentic system and has built a teacher-training program under Romana’s guidance, using the details passed to her from Joseph Pilates. Inelia Garcia was named Teacher of Teachers by Romana Kryzanowska.

Inelia’s brilliance in creating a system for training teachers is unmatched. She is sought after internationally for her intensive and thorough training. Her programs are held to the highest standard and create excellent teachers with the knowledge, answers, and tools needed to teach any body in any condition. She comes to NYC once a year. If you are thinking of studying with Inelia, do not miss this opportunity.

Completion of the basic module is not required; however, everyone will be evaluated and accepted based on their experience and prior training.

The program is accepting students on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent on qualifications. Enrollment is limited so that everyone will receive personal attention. We recommend applying as soon as possible to secure a spot.

What’s Included in the Contrology Program:

· 5 Intensive days of in-person, hands-on training from Inelia Garcia, Teacher of Teachers

· Comprehensive English-language manual with color photos and text descriptions

· Live English translation for the whole program

· Contrology T-shirt

· Online training sessions prior to the in-person program

· Certificate of Completion signed by Inelia Garcia

· Eligibility for Advanced Contrology Modules

· Discounted private sessions at Authentic Pilates NYC

· Access to private online discussion group

Key Outcomes:

· Master the Contrology Intermediate System with greater confidence

· Understand how to modify exercises for different populations

· Know how and when to use apparatus and the system to best serve clients

· Improve your teaching and use the Pilates principles with ease and confidence

· Reignite your passion for Pilates and inspire your students

· Learn directly from Inelia Garcia’s legendary hands-on technique and verbal cueing

· Leave empowered and more skilled as a teacher

· Increase your value as a teacher

The cost for the 5-day Contrology Intensive is $3300.

More information here


r/pilates 4h ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios Hiring in Indianapolis

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4 Upvotes

This opportunity would be amazing for someone who has not yet completed their Teacher Training observation/teaching hours as we’re very generous with mentoring, opening up our studio for practice, and building each other up as successful Pilates teachers.

Feel free to DM me directly if you’re interested!


r/pilates 15h ago

*1ST OF MONTH* Promotional Post Inelia Garcia Contrology Program NYC for certified teachers

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7 Upvotes

r/pilates 10h ago

*1ST OF MONTH* Promotional Post Still planning your Pilates classes in Notes?

1 Upvotes

Hello!

I’m looking for some honest feedback on an app I built for instructors, ideally those who teach disciplines like mat, reformer and/or barre. It can be used for others too, but these are what I teach, so they’re what I know best at this stage!

I’m a Pilates instructor myself and came up with the idea when I was training. I wanted one place to digitally store my class plans and build a library of exercises and sequences - things I’d picked up from classes, ideas that came to mind, or inspiration I wanted to take away and make my own.

I couldn’t find anything that really worked for me, so like a lot of instructors I ended up using Notes on my iPhone.

The problem was that I’d save things and then completely forget about them. Ideas never resurfaced, old class plans disappeared into folders, and I’d often end up starting again when I’d probably already created something I could reuse.

So I built ARKV. Pronounced “ark-ive”

It’s essentially one organised place for your class plans, exercises and sequences. You can dictate or type exercises, organise and filter them by things like muscle group or prop, save favourites, and build an archive you can actually search, reuse and add to over time.

There’s also an AI assistant, KARI, which helps organise and categorise what you add rather than trying to replace your own programming.

I’m not selling anything. ARKV is free to use at the moment because what I really need is honest feedback from instructors. I want to know whether you see value in it, whether you’d actually use it, what you’d change, or even if it’s simply not for you.

It’s been a labour of lots of emotions. I started it before a family bereavement, and it’s taken me quite a lot to finally get it to this stage, so seeing people actually use it means a lot.
If anyone would be willing to take a look and give me completely honest feedback, I’d really appreciate it.

Create. Plan. Archive. Teach.

https://arkv.app

It’s currently iPhone only (sorry other users!)

Thanks for reading ♥️


r/pilates 14h ago

*1ST OF MONTH* Promotional Post UYAVA Grip Socks - Size XS Coming Soon

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0 Upvotes

Hi r/pilates!

Today I wanted to talk about grip sock sizing here. Most grip socks out there are "one size fits all” or a single sock covers S/M or M/L. That's a huge range for a product whose entire job is to stay put on your foot. When a sock is too big, the grip pad ends up somewhere under your arch instead of the ball of your foot, the extra fabric bunches at your toes, and the heel creeps down mid-class. At that point the grip is basically decoration.
How we think about sizing at UYAVA? We went with real sizes instead — S (US 6–7.5) and M (US 8–9.5), each cut and gripped for that specific foot rather than stretched to cover everyone.

Which brings me to the reason I'm posting. We know there's a gap. If you're under a US 6, we currently have nothing for you, and honestly most brands don't either — a lot of you have just been buying the "next best" size and living with it. BUT our XS size is coming later this fall and it will cover women US shoe sizes 4-5.5.

If you've been fighting your grip socks for fit, this one's for you. The drop will be small, so the best way to actually get a pair is to be on the list before it goes live: there's an email signup at uyava.us, or you can follow along on Instagram @uyavaofficial. List goes out first, then the site.

Also genuinely curious while I'm here — for those of you with smaller feet, what bugs you most about the socks you're wearing now? Heel slipping, toes bunching, cuff falling down? I'd love to know what to keep an eye on.
S and M are up on the site if you want to see what we make. Happy to chat about materials, the grip pattern, or anything else. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!


r/pilates 2d ago

Equipment, Apparatus, Props, Apparel Best studio shoe for instructors

6 Upvotes

What are your recommendations for a good studio shoe? I've been using the Hoka Bondi, but they are worn clean out. I'm debating replacing or trying something new (cheaper ha ha). I can't handle teaching barefoot or in grip socks as it's too painful. I had a pair of Sketcher's slip ons in the past, but I would have noticeable discomfort after 3 classes.


r/pilates 2d ago

Equipment, Apparatus, Props, Apparel Hot mat Pilates

16 Upvotes

Hi all,

For those of you that take hot mat Pilates, do you wear grip socks? I do wear them in the regular reformer studio but not in the mat Pilates. I do have a Manduka GRP mat that’s very grippy and resist from slipping, but I want to hear from the users if you do wear them in hot mat Pilates class or not.


r/pilates 6d ago

Celebration/Love of Pilates Success in Initial Physical Therapy Testing

22 Upvotes

I am re-starting physical therapy to address my bi-lateral Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis that I’ve had for over 10 years. Every intervention has helped, but I’m looking to get rid of it once and for all. Anyway, during the evaluation, the PT asked me to do a squat, do more than 10 calf raises single leg, etc. I aced it. She said for someone who is 40, this is really quite good. My form is good, etc. It was such a good feeling. Basically, I feel like I showed to the first session with a strong baseline of mobility and strength. I feel like my muscles are so much more solid and competent since practicing Pilates for 16 months consistently. Pilates is awesome. The proof is in the strength and functional mobility. 💪🏻


r/pilates 6d ago

Form, Technique, Etiquette I Won't Get Class Next Month

26 Upvotes

Previous Op of this post

https://www.reddit.com/r/pilates/s/CjfhqqctW0

I taught a total of 10 hours for the past 4 weeks.

I received 1 star on my first class.

Another one 4 stars for not having music.

Subsequently all are 5 stars and even have my regulars signing up from week 1.

I thought everything went well. So I texted the owner to inform that Id be away for few weeks.

She replied that she wont be giving me any classes anymore as she received feedback as I quoted

"Several members mentioned that you were reading from notes during class, which raised concerns regarding teaching professionalism."

I did glance on my phone to check on time and notes for the flows/setting (the reformer is with heavier spring, different than the one I used to). But I didnt put any cues inside or reading the whole sentence.

Is this fatal?

Before I started, I read few posts on this sub and other pilates training, how to memorize the whole flow. It seems that having note is normal.

Pls let me know how fatal this is.

Edit :

Chanced upon this post and read the comments

https://www.instagram.com/p/DcAY3fjFInL/

Im glad Im not the odd one!


r/pilates 6d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios Honest Ask: Will My Passion for Pilates Fade if I Teach?

33 Upvotes

This. I’ve been a passionate Pilates students for over 5 years. I’ve spent thousands of dollars on memberships at classical and contemporary studios, built a Pilates studio at my house, and have logged over 200 private instruction sessions. I just LOVE Pilates. Lately I’ve wondered if teaching would be inspiring and help my passion grow. My biggest fear: teaching will lead to burn out or I’ll start to feel like I turned my passion into something unmanageable as an instructor. I have taught as a college educator in my history and have always loved to teach in general. Any guidance here?


r/pilates 7d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios What are your favorite ways to verbally transition between exercises?

21 Upvotes

As a new instructor I am trying to get better at transitioning between exercises not only physically having a good flow for my clients but with my words. How do you all verbally transition between exercises or do you go with the classic “Okay now you’re gonna…” or “Okay let’s…”

I find myself saying “so good! Okay now…” a lot in class and I don’t want to sound like a broken record as I continue on my teaching journey, but maybe I am totally overthinking it.

I don’t think those types of transitions are bad at all, I am just looking for some inspiration!

Edit: I teach mat only but still would love to hear inputs from you if you teach apparatuses too!


r/pilates 7d ago

Local Recommendations, Meetups Toronto Classical mat pilates / contrology classes recommendations

7 Upvotes

are there any studios in toronto that teach specifically the original 34 mat exercises? most studios are contemporary as far as i'm aware and have classical moves woven throughout, but i'm looking to take a class that is going to run through the original 34.


r/pilates 10d ago

Equipment, Apparatus, Props, Apparel Pilates mat recommendations for use on carpet

6 Upvotes

I want to buy the best mat I can, budget isn’t an issue I just don’t want to end up spending and get it the wrong one!

I have a high pile carpet.

I’ve narrowed it down to peloton reversible mat which is 5mm, Bala mat which is 8mm or Manduka pro but I’m just a bit worried that I don’t want the mat to squish into the carpet and not support me…!

Thanks :)


r/pilates 10d ago

Discussion Pilates and physical therapy

0 Upvotes

So I came across a post, where a Pilates instructor is claiming that Pilates is physical therapy. When I (respectfully) contradicted her, I was immediately blocked. No discussion, no defending her statement, just a flat out block. And that got me thinking, because I’ve never seen this claim before, are there people (especially instructors) who actually believe Pilates and physical therapy are the same thing?


r/pilates 12d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios Temporary disability insurance

7 Upvotes

Back when I was teaching Pilates part time but also had a full time job or full time school, I wasn't too worried about potentially missing some work for illness and the like. Now I teach Pilates essentially full time, though not full time status, and while I have basic liability insurance to cover me at the one studio where I'm a 1099 instead of a W-2 employee, I realized I really need temporary disability insurance, because what if I broke my leg and couldn't teach for two months or something? It's one thing to take a few days off and miss a few hundred dollars, but when Pilates is my only source of income, more than a week off would really have a major impact on my finances.

I'm curious if anyone has had any good experiences with any of the insurance companies that offer short term disability coverage outside of an add-on with your full time benefits, because I've never purchased it that way. Would love any recommendations or anti-recommendations if there are places where you've had bad experiences! I am located in New York state and city for reference, so looking for US-based answers and ideally other New Yorkers if they're out there.


r/pilates 13d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios STOTT - teaching before certification?

10 Upvotes

Hello all,

I completed my STOTT intensive mat training this summer, and will pursue my advanced mat in October.

I want to wait until I train in reformer until sitting my exam and becoming fully certified.

However, I am very keen to begin teaching ASAP. Has anyone gone down a similar route? I live in a major city so I’m hoping there ought to be plenty of opportunities, just concerned about studios and gyms etc being fussy about certification?

Thank you for any thoughts and musings x x x


r/pilates 13d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios What are your favorite motivational phrases in your Pilates classes?

95 Upvotes

Whether it’s a phrase you say or one you have heard in class.

I recently heard “fight for it” when I was in a class during one of the really challenging parts and I really liked that one. I also love the classic “yes you can”

I’d love to hear some phrases you use or have heard in your classes!


r/pilates 14d ago

Form, Technique, Etiquette Tips on tight hip flexors?

35 Upvotes

My hip flexors have grown a lot tighter over recent years. I'm suspecting my anterior pelvic tilt and large quad-dominant legs contribute towards it.

I've heard stretching helps but strengthening hip flexors is more effective; any stretches/exercises to target the hip flexors and not as much of the quads? Any other tips? Any folding of the body or lifting the legs (teasers, hip circles) are my biggest weakness.


r/pilates 14d ago

Form, Technique, Etiquette Pilates Masterclass: Bridging | How to Perform & Teach It Correctly

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28 Upvotes

Another quick video for Instructors and curious students!

I truly truly believe learning how to properly execute a rounded bridge is not only quintessential pilates, but quite literally the foundational exercise for any and all spinal articulation exercises (rolling up/down, short/long spine, magician, cat, etc...). I also like to go over all of the common issues (gripping neck/traps, hamstring cramping, etc...) and how to cue out of them.

If you can teach a novice student how to connect their mind-body in a rounded bridge, you can do anything! Happy teaching


r/pilates 14d ago

Teaching, Teacher Training, Running Studios Reformer test out Balanced Body

7 Upvotes

Hello was there anything on the Balanced Body written exam (reformer) that caught you off guard that would help me? Anything you think I should study? There’s so much info it’s overwhelming. Any input is helpful.


r/pilates 15d ago

Celebration/Love of Pilates Kathy Grant Scholars

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59 Upvotes

Hi friends! I’m working on a special KG project and would love to meet others who practice her work or carry it on in any way. Did you do Cara Reeser’s program? Have you trained with Blossom? Eager to hear your stories.


r/pilates 16d ago

Industry Talk, News, Trends Any Supplements?

1 Upvotes

Hello, I’m trying to ascertain if supplements are common for the members of this sub to enhance their Pilates practice. I’m sure a lot of us use protein, but I’m more curious about creatine, pre-workout, etc.


r/pilates 19d ago

Equipment, Apparatus, Props, Apparel Is There Such a Thing as an Under Desk Pilates Chair Style Pedal?

19 Upvotes

The other day I noticed someone using an mini treadmill with a standing desk and I had a thought. What if I were to sit on a wunda chair and press the pedal down with my feet while working? I love my pilates workouts but spend far more time at my desk.

I looked at several chairs and am considering ordering one but then thought all I really need is the pedal part and if there is an underdesk version of that it would be better because there is no need to switch off between desk chair and wunda chair all the time. Does such a thing exist? If so, what is it called and where can I get it?