How to Find the Perfect Pilates Class for Beginners Near You

Searching for Pilates Near Me For Beginners? Here's what to consider. (Photo Credit: Freepik.com

PILATES FOUNDATIONSPILATES STUDIOSTHE BUSINESS OF PILATES

Corie Kellman

7/5/20253 min read

woman doing ab work with a foam roller
woman doing ab work with a foam roller

Photo Credit: FreePik.com

Interest in Pilates but a Beginner?

Are you intrigued by Pilates but don't know where to start? You’re not alone! Many people find themselves drawn to this low-impact exercise for its ability to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and promote mindfulness. If you're searching for a Pilates class for beginners near you, you've come to the right place!

Where to Look for Local Pilates Classes

Since you made it to this page, we assume that you may have already used a search engine like Google to find a class near you but may still be intimidated or unsure which studio and class to choose. If not, we recommend your first step to create a short list of Pilates studios convenient to get to and then some of these tips will help you narrow down which to choose. Here is a tool that will help you locate some near you! Once you have created that list, use the tips below.

What to Look for in a Beginner Pilates Class: 7 Tips to Choosing The Right Fit For You

  1. Choose the type of equipment you want to try. Pilates offers a wide range of equipment, and not every class or studio will offer the equipment in classes. Some common equipment used in Pilates classes include: Mat, Reformer, Springboard, Wunda Chair, Cadillac, and Ladder Barrel. Choosing which equipment will narrow down your choices right away!

  2. Choose a studio that offers Level or Formatted classes. Some studios will offer All Levels classes and some studios will offer leveled classes. Be sure to read the descriptions to understand what each class includes and who it's right for. While an All Levels class should also be suitable for Beginners, if you have any reservations, we recommend finding one that is specific to individuals so that you do not feel intimidated or feel as though you have to push yourself through progressions you are not ready for. An All Levels class typically start with exercises that meet the needs for all students, and will offer layered challenges that you can take if you like, but remember that the room is a mixed level. Many students at the beginning of their Pilates journey will prefer a beginner class before jumping into a mixed levels class so that they feel a sense of comfort knowing others around them are also beginners. Some studios also offer an introduction class to make sure that their members really understand the flow of classes and the equipment they will use.

  3. Decide if you prefer group classes or individual training sessions. Some studios will stress that Privates are the best way to begin; however at Graduate Pilates we do not necessarily agree with that statement. One to one sessions are great for people with limitations like an injury or doctors restrictions, and they are also great for individuals looking to level up their practice and progress more quickly; otherwise, group class is a great place to start. Everything will take time, and you won't know everything in your first group class, it will take time to learn the method, but as long as you understand that and take cues from your instructor, you will do great. If you join group classes and feel lost, you may consider adding in personalized private lessons.

  4. Find a time that meets your schedule. It may sound simple, but you have to make it class to take class. If you choose a studio that does not offer enough classes at times you are available to take them, you may need to consider private training or finding a studio that has classes that align with your lifestyle.

  5. Look at the studio's teachers and check them out online and social media. Most of the value that comes from the class comes directly from the instructor. The studio can be beautiful, the schedule can be perfect, but if the instructor does not match your needs, then you will not enjoy class. Decide what you value from your instructor and find a few that meet your needs to have a good mix of people who can lead you through your workout.

  6. Look at the community of the studio. A big part of your experience will be determined by the community. Find a studio where the culture and community makes you feel like you belong there.

  7. Try more than one class before you decide that Pilates is not for you. I always tell new clients that if they did not enjoy this class to try another class or instructor. There is so much Pilates has to offer and so many different styles of teaching that trying it once may not be a good indicator of whether or not they will enjoy the method long term.


Have more questions? Feel free to send us a message and we can help point you in the right direction!