Feeling a little nervous is completely normal. Here is exactly what happens during your first visit, step by step.
Most people tell us afterwards that they were far more nervous beforehand than they needed to be. Nobody expects you to arrive knowing what to do.
You do not need specialist clothing, expensive equipment or any knowledge of Pilates before you arrive.
Leggings, joggers, a T-shirt or an exercise top are all suitable. Wear something that lets you bend, reach and move freely.
A water bottle is useful, although the class is structured and there is no pressure to keep moving without a break.
Grip socks are required for Reformer classes. Bring your own or buy a pair at the studio.
We do not wear outdoor shoes inside either studio. There is space to remove them when you arrive.
Arrive around five minutes early. That gives you enough time to park, remove your shoes and settle in without leaving you waiting around.
Both studios have free parking. There is no reception desk, so if a class is already in progress, please wait quietly outside the studio until it finishes. Your instructor will then invite everyone in for the next class. If it is your first visit, simply let the instructor know when you come in.
The instructor will show you where to leave your shoes and belongings and help you find your place. You can also mention any injury, recent surgery, medical issue or movement that currently feels uncomfortable.
You will not be left wondering what to do. The instructor knows who is new and will make sure you are settled before the class begins.
This is the only part of the first-class experience that differs significantly.
The instructor will introduce the machine before class begins. They will explain the carriage, springs, straps and footbar, and show you how to get on and off safely.
Beginner classes still provide a full-body workout. The machine is explained clearly, but you start moving straight away.
You will find a place in the studio and collect any equipment being used. The instructor demonstrates and explains the exercises as the class progresses.
Mat beginners join mixed-ability sessions, with different versions offered so you can work at an appropriate level.
Still deciding between them? Our Mat vs Reformer guide explains the differences in detail.
The class begins with a warm-up. This helps you settle, mobilises the body and introduces some of the movements or positions that will appear later.
You may hear unfamiliar words, but you are not expected to remember everything immediately.
The exercises progress into a full-body workout. You may work lying down, seated, kneeling or standing, depending on the class.
The instructor will demonstrate, explain and offer different options. Choose the version that lets you move with the most control.
You might forget which leg is moving, confuse left and right or need to look around briefly. This happens to almost everyone when they start.
The rest of the class is concentrating on their own movement—not watching you.
The class finishes with a cool-down, giving you time to release tension and allow your breathing and movement to settle before you leave.
Nobody walks into their first Pilates class knowing exactly what they are doing.
We expect people to need reminders. We expect questions. We expect beginners to lose track occasionally or laugh when left and right become confusing.
That is not interrupting the class. Teaching you is the instructor's job.
You would not expect to learn French in one lesson. Pilates is similar: you are learning a new language of movement.
You are listening for instructions, learning positions and trying to work out what moves where.
You recognise a few words and exercises, so there is less to process all at once.
You can focus more on control and technique rather than simply remembering what happens next.
Your first class is not a test. It is the beginning of learning a method that becomes more enjoyable as the basics start to make sense.
You will wipe down the machine so it is clean and ready for the next person.
You will put away any small equipment used and wipe down anything that needs cleaning.
This is also a good time to ask the instructor about anything that felt unclear or uncomfortable.
You may feel muscles that you did not realise you had worked. You may feel looser, taller or more aware of your posture. You may also feel very little.
None of these reactions tells you whether the class “worked” better. Muscle soreness varies between people and from one session to another.
No. Classes contain people with different levels of experience, and every experienced client once attended a first class.
The instructor can give you a different version or ask you to leave that exercise out. There is no need to force a movement.
Yes. Pause whenever you need to. You do not have to keep up with anyone else.
No. Feeling unfit or stiff is one of the most common reasons people decide to start Pilates.
Tell us before booking or speak to the instructor before class. Depending on your circumstances, we may suggest a gentler class, a private session or medical clearance first.
Try to arrive around five minutes early so you are not rushed. Arriving after the class has started may mean missing important instructions, particularly in a Reformer beginner class.
Our introductory offers give you enough time to experience Pilates properly and become familiar with the exercises.
