Choosing the right clothing for physical activity should be an easy decision, however there are factors we need to consider.
The first question is what sort of exercise will I be doing? Take into account the types of movements you will be performing, will you be exercising indoors or outside in the elements? What type of fabric will be suitable? The change in the seasons will also have an impact on your choice of exercise clothing even if practising indoors.
Breathable synthetic fabrics that ‘wick’ the sweat away from your skin and help it to evaporate are an excellent choice when exercising, keeping you cool and your skin dry.
Cotton however absorbs the sweat, it doesn’t pull the sweat away from the body, and this can leave your skin feeling damp and the clothes heavy, not very desirable no matter what the workout!
Avoid fabrics that don’t let the skin breathe, never wear clothing made from rubber based or plastic based materials, these will keep the body temperature elevated during exercise and your skin wet.
During the colder seasons you may need to start your exercise class with a few more layers, this is until your heart rate starts to increase during your workout and your body temperature with it. Having layers is the key during the colder months; keep sweat-wicking clothing on your inner layer, next to your skin and an insulating layer on top that can easily be removed, choose something that you won’t need to ‘struggle’ out off and is easily and quickly removed.
Clothing for Pilates should be comfortable, the fabric needs to be soft, following the body in movement and allow the body to breath during exercise keeping you cool.
During a Pilates class you need to have the ability to move freely, without constriction. Clothing should allow you to stretch and reach without the constant need to ‘readjust’ after every move, distracting you from the flow of your workout. I like to wear #PebblesPilates BCYB (Be in Charge for Your Body) Jumpsuit, with its seamless design, super soft breathable fabric adjustable straps for comfort, it is a complete pleasure to wear when teaching Pilates or taking part in a class.
The fabric stretches to fit your natural curves, supporting in all the right areas, but without making you feel constricted in anyway, it is light on the body. The jumpsuit is a perfect piece for practicing Pilates, no need to hitch down that t-shirt or hitch up those bottoms! Enabling you to concentrate fully on the enjoyment of your class, and feel confident with moving your body.
Special footwear is not needed for Pilates, it is generally practiced with socks or bare feet. Wearing socks is more hygienic than bare feet on shared mats. Speciality grip socks are available to purchase. The 5-toe grip sock has become a staple accessory for Pilates, the toes are spread enabling your feet to stay anchored in place, helping with balance. The non-slip sole makes for secure footing on any surface and the soft organic cotton blend keeps toes cozy.
Whatever your chosen exercise class, the correct clothing should enhance a workout experience; make you feel confident in your body, leaving you feeling positive about exercise with a desire to continue.
