What to Wear to Pilates (Reformer & Mat)

By Gabriella Arce Rodriguez and Marianna Arce Rodriguez, founders of Calm Heart Studio

Wear comfortable workout clothes you can move freely in: leggings or shorts and a top that stays put when you bend or roll. For Reformer classes you’ll also need grip socks. Skip anything with zippers or buttons, tie long hair back, and leave jewellery at home. That’s it. You don’t need special gear or a new outfit to start.

Below, we explain what works best for Reformer and mat Pilates, what to leave at home, and what to bring to your first class at our Etobicoke or North York studio.

Quick checklist for your first class – eggings, joggers that sit close to the leg, or shorts – A comfortable top or tank (or a supportive sports bra under a comfortable top) – Grip socks for Reformer (available at our front desk for $10) – Hair tied back; jewellery off – A water bottle – Nothing with zippers or buttons

What to wear to Reformer Pilates

The Reformer is a sliding carriage with springs, straps and a foot bar, so what you wear matters a little more than in a mat class.

Choose comfortable clothing. Loose shorts, wide-leg pants and baggy shirts can catch in the springs or straps, and they make it harder for your instructor to see your alignment. Leggings or comfortable shorts and a close-fitting top are ideal.
Avoid zippers and buttons. It’s our one dress-code request at Calm Heart. Metal zippers, buttons and buckles can press into you when you lie on the carriage, and they can scratch or tear the upholstery.
Pick a top that stays put. Many Reformer exercises have you lying on your back, rolling or lifting your hips. A top that rides up can be distracting, so a comfortable tank or tucked-in tee works well.
Wear grip socks. They keep your feet from slipping on the foot bar and the carriage, and they’re more hygienic on shared equipment.

“The best Reformer outfit is the one you forget you’re wearing. Comfortable clothes let you move freely, help your instructor see your alignment, and won’t catch in the springs or straps. Add a pair of grip socks and you’re ready.”
— Gabriella Arce Rodriguez and Marianna Arce Rodriguez, founders of Calm Heart Studio

What to wear to mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is a little more forgiving, but the same principles apply.

Comfortable, stretchy clothing that lets you roll, twist and lie on your stomach comfortably.
Bare feet or grip socks, whichever you prefer.
Layers you can take off if you tend to start a class cold. Peel off a light sweater once you warm up.

We provide mats, props and all the equipment, so you only need to bring yourself.

Do you need grip socks for Pilates?

For Reformer, yes. Grip socks have rubber dots or pads on the sole that stop your feet from sliding on the foot bar and the carriage. They also keep shared equipment cleaner.

For mat Pilates, they’re optional. Many people simply go barefoot.

Forgot yours? No problem. Grip socks are available to buy at our front desk for $10.

What not to wear to Pilates

Clothing with zippers or buttons (our one dress-code request)
Loose or baggy shorts and wide-leg pants, which can catch in the equipment and ride up when your legs are raised
Jewellery: rings, bracelets and long necklaces can get in the way and scratch the equipment
Shoes: Pilates is done in grip socks or bare feet
Heavy perfume or cologne: classes are small, and you’ll be working close to others

What to bring to your first class

A water bottle
Grip socks for Reformer (or buy a pair at the front desk)
Yourself, 10–15 minutes early. That gives you time to check in, meet your instructor and get set up. In Reformer classes, your instructor will walk you through the machine before you start.

There’s no need to bring a mat or props. We provide everything.

What about barre and yoga?

Barre: wear the same clothes you’d wear for Pilates. Grip socks are a good idea, since barre uses a lot of balance and small movements on your toes.

Yoga: comfortable, stretchy clothes you can move in. Yoga is usually practised barefoot.

Not sure what a class involves? See all our Pilates, yoga and barre classes, or ask our front desk team.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear shorts to Pilates?

Yes, as long as they’re comfortable. Bike shorts or snug athletic shorts work well. Loose running shorts can ride up when your legs are raised and can catch in the Reformer springs.

Do I need special shoes for Pilates?

No. Pilates is done in grip socks or bare feet, never in shoes.

What should men wear to Pilates?

The same principles apply: comfortable athletic shorts or joggers that sit close to the leg, a comfortable T-shirt or tank, and grip socks for Reformer. Avoid very loose shorts and anything with zippers or buttons.

What if I forget my grip socks?

You can buy a pair at our front desk for $10.

Can I wear just a sports bra to Pilates?

Wear whatever you’re comfortable working out in. Our dress code simply asks that you avoid clothing with zippers and buttons.

Do I need to buy special Pilates clothes?

No. Any comfortable workout clothes you already own will work.

Ready for your first class?

Now that you know what to wear, the next step is the easiest one: book a class. Every class at Calm Heart offers modifications, and no experience is needed.

New to Pilates? Read our first-class guide for how to book and what to expect.
Try everything first: our 30 Days of Calm pass gives you 30 days of unlimited classes (one class per day), valid for every class we offer, with no membership commitment.
Choose your studio: Calm Heart Lakeshore, 3301 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke, or Calm Heart Wilson, 1805 Wilson Ave, North York.

View the class schedule

About the authors: Gabriella Arce Rodriguez and Marianna Arce Rodriguez are the founders of Calm Heart Studio. Gabriella teaches all of Calm Heart’s offerings, including Reformer, Mat Pilates, Barre and Yoga. Marianna specializes in Reformer, Chair, Tower, Spring Board and Mat Pilates. Meet the full team on our Instructors page.