Pilates at home: Creating your own personal Pilates studio
You may already be convinced of the holistic benefits of Pilates including improved strength, flexibility, and mental well-being. But for all sorts of reasons, you might consider setting up your own Pilates sanctuary at home.
Why organise a Pilates studio at home?
It could be that you’ve been attending group Pilates classes for years, and you’d like to increase the frequency of your practice to supplement your classes.
Perhaps you need more flexibility, and organising your home-based practice is more convenient, particularly if life is busy and you’re finding it hard to attend classes in person.
Cost of living can also be a challenge. By committing to regular practice at home, you may save yourself some money.
Occasionally, the need for privacy can be a reason for people not to attend group classes. Some people feel self-conscious about exercising with others and prefer an online class. The COVID pandemic certainly opened up many opportunities to ‘attend’ classes using our electronic devices.
Five tips on setting up your Pilates studio
The first step is identifying a space in your home conducive to movement and relaxation. Ideally, it should have lots of natural light and minimal distractions. Consider repurposing a spare room, clearing out a corner of a living area, or even using an outdoor space if weather permits.
Invest in a high-quality Pilates mat to cushion and support your practice. Look for a durable, non-slip mat that's easy to clean.
Depending on your budget and preferences, consider adding extra equipment such as resistance bands, Pilates rings, stability balls, and foam rollers to enhance your workouts. Start with the basics and gradually expand your collection as your practice evolves.
Create a calming atmosphere in your Pilates sanctuary. Incorporate elements such as soft lighting, soothing music, and aromatherapy diffusers. Consider adding plants or artwork to personalise the space and make it inviting.
Organise your equipment in a way that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Use storage solutions such as baskets, bins, or wall-mounted racks to keep your space tidy and clutter-free. Having everything accessible will make staying motivated and consistent with your practice easier.
Staying motivated and consistent in your Pilates practice
Now that you’re all set up, it’s time to set your goals and ensure you achieve them.
Set specific, achievable goals for your Pilates practice. - Whether mastering a particular exercise, improving flexibility, or committing to a certain number of sessions per week, it’s important to write down your goals. Revisit them regularly to track your progress and stay motivated.
Create a dedicated schedule for your Pilates workouts. - Treat your home-based workouts like appointments that can’t be missed! Consistency is key to building a sustainable practice. Aim to carve out time for Pilates in your daily or weekly routine.
Mix up your workouts to keep things interesting and prevent boredom. -Incorporate various Pilates exercises, from mat-based routines to workouts using props like resistance bands or stability balls. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.
Find a workout buddy or accountability partner to help keep you motivated and on track. Whether it's a friend, family member, or online community, having someone to share your progress and challenges with can provide valuable support and encouragement.
Reward yourself for sticking to your Pilates routine. Treat yourself to a relaxing bath, enjoy a healthy snack, or indulge in a favourite activity. Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, will reinforce positive habits and keep you motivated.
Stay inspired by seeking out new sources of motivation. Seek success stories from fellow Pilates enthusiasts. Watch videos of advanced practitioners demonstrating challenging exercises. Surround yourself with positive influences that fuel your passion for Pilates and remind you why you started in the first place.
Staying safe when practising Pilates at home
One big advantage of attending a class or having a one-on-one Pilates coach is that you have someone to keep an eye on you as you practice. Proper instruction can help prevent injury and ensure you achieve your fitness goals safely.
Our recommendation is always to listen to your body.
If you’re unsure about a particular exercise or need your alignment checked, seek advice. Supplement your home sessions with an occasional in-person class or individual tuition with a qualified Pilates instructor.
You might also find that there are advantages to practising in a group from time to time. The benefits of social interaction are many, and our Active Pilates community has lots of fun before, during, and after our Pilates workouts!
If you’re motivated to step up your Pilates practice, setting yourself up at home is a fantastic idea.
If you’d like ideas on starting your home Pilates journey confidently and want personal coaching, we look forward to hearing from you soon.