Beginning PilatesIf you have never done Pilates before, the first time you turn up at a class you are likely to be somewhat intimidated. There is every reason to feel this way – Pilates apparatus does not look like much you’ll see elsewhere, for one thing. For another, beginning anything new is always a little bit strange because it takes us out of our comfort zone. You would feel the same if you walked into a creative writing class, so try not to sweat it.

For many people, of course, the major scare of beginning Pilates is the fear of exposing your novice status and your perceived lack of fitness. However the fact is that we were all beginners once. Further to this people will, in the main, be concentrating on what they have to do and not on what you are doing. And perhaps most importantly, if you are beginning Pilates you are not going to be trying to match what they are doing. You will be picking up the basics in order that you can do that stuff later.

For any beginning Pilates pracitioner, the key is to begin with mat exercises. Similar to yoga, from which Pilates takes some of its heritage, basic mat exercises are important in teaching you the principles of Pilates. You will build on these principles, going from the basics to the intermediate stage, and beyong if you wish. But to get these principles you really do not need anything beyond simple floor exercises, and to hone them you can use the more basic equipment.

Early Pilates is simply about communicating the importance of the six principles of Pilates – breath, centering, concentration, control, flow and precision. Once in a while you may look around at the odd chair-shaped contraptions among other items and wonder what part they play in what you are about to do. As a beginner, you do not need to worry about that. When the time comes to use them, you’ll know how and your body will be ready. Concentrate on acclimatising, and the step up will seem minimal when it happens.