What to expect for my first Pilates class?
So, you’ve taken the leap and decided to take a Pilates class with Felicia Jane Pilates in Gillette, Wyoming.
First: Way to go! You’ve made a commitment to yourself and you should be so proud of that.
Now, I won’t lie, it’s pretty weird to walk into a Pilates studio for the first time. Looking around at all of the equipment, I bet you start to feel slightly intimidated, and wonder what those contraptions are, and if you’ll have to use them. But hey, I’m the first to tell you that Pilates is weird. It’s awkward. You’re not going to understand everything I ask of you immediately. You’ll likely laugh at me. But I promise that Pilates is fun!
Overall, I want you to know that there is nothing fast about a Pilates class with me. Most of my sessions consist of slow, intentional movements that are highly focused. It is important to to me to help you concentrate, breathe, and carry out the movements correctly.
Here’s a quick guide at what to expect for your first session at FJP.
What to bring to your first Pilates class
Honestly… just bring yourself. I’m going to provide the mat, the equipment, the props, the cleaner, and the oh so awkward instructions!
If we’re only doing mat Pilates work: You don’t need to bring a mat; in fact, we have some awesome, thicker mats here that provide a little extra cushioning and padding. However, if you have some sensitivities to smell, you are more than welcome to bring a mat to lay on top of other mats.
And, you’re more than welcome to bring water with you. But, you really won't be drinking as much water as you would for an aerobic workout (think HITT, aerobics, spin, etc.) or when you’re lifting weights. However, please be well-hydrated before your class, and I would encourage you to drink water afterward as well.
What to wear for your Pilates class
I like to keep it casual and simple at Felicia Jane Pilates. You’ll likely find me in leggings or joggers, a funny T-shirt (or sweatshirt), some sticky socks or my teaching shoes, and sometimes I’ll don a hat. But, here are some ideas for you:
Skip the shoes! That’s right. I want to get every part of your body moving, so that means you don’t even have to wear your shoes. See: Pilates is great; you don’t have to buy expensive footwear for it!
Sticky socks. Bare feet may feel slightly chilly, so I’d recommend a pair (or 20; trust me, it becomes an addiction) of grippy socks – or the non-slip or skid socks. The bottoms of these socks have rubber-like dots or patterns, which make a slip-free surface while you move or pose. Plus, they keep your tootsies warm. You can even purchase a pair from me!
Clothing. When you choose clothing for your Pilates class, I strongly encourage you to go with form fitting or stretchy, not baggy, clothes. This allows me to see your posture, alignment and how your muscles are engaging for the moves. It also keeps you safe on the equipment. I’d also avoid tops with tie-backs, belts, drawstrings, zippers, buckles, clasps, buttons or other metal or plastic trimmings. These can be uncomfortable for you in certain positions, but they can also damage the equipment.
Jewelry. Think about removing jewelry before attending a class—and definitely take off any long necklaces or bracelets, as they can be dangerous if caught in equipment. I realize that you may not want to take off your ring, and that’s OK. I have opted for a band, and really do like the silicone bands. Hint: you can grab a silicone one at EK Jewelers here in Gillette if you’re looking.
Hair and makeup. If you can’t stand your hair in your face, be sure to pull it back or pile it on top of your head with a hair tie or scrunchie (can’t believe those are back in style). And, if you can come fresh-faced (that means no makeup), that’s ideal. Makeup can stain some of the upholstery on equipment.
If you’re unsure of where to find some of these items, check out some of the places I shop. Most are size inclusive, and some have stores in Gillette, Wyoming.
Amazon (tip, use Smile.Amazon.com to give back to your favorite nonprofit)
Bombas (sticky socks and compression socks)
Livi Active by Lane Bryant
You can also find some pretty funny Pilates-inspired shirts and other apparel at the Movement Shop, where I’m an ambassador: https://themovementshop.com/fjpilates
Dos and Don’ts
Do complete the intake form. This form allows me to better get to know you as my client, and learn about your goals, which are very important to me. If you haven’t been able to complete my client profile before you come to your first class, please come 10-15 minutes early. Hint: you can complete this form here: https://forms.gle/YMeMtf4ByUpbyrme8. If you have, consider showing up 5-10 minutes early for your first class. This way we can introduce ourselves and I can show you around a bit. Tip: you can also book a 30 minute consultation for FREE so you can check out the studio, here my spiel about Pilates, and play with the equipment a little. Just text/call me at 307.363.0124 or email fjpilates@gmail.com to book that.
Do tell me how you’re feeling. Every class I ask my clients how they feel; and I really want to know. If you have an injury, something is sore, have a slight pain, headache, hamstrings are tighter than normal, back pain, or anything, please speak up before class starts. This way, I can pay attention to your form, and tailor the exercise to fit your needs.
Do ask questions. Don’t understand what I mean by scoop your abs, or don’t know what (or where) your sacrum is? Great. Ask me! Feel free to pull me aside and ask me in private, or interrupt me while I’m teaching. This class is for you, to help you reach your goals. I want you to understand what I’m asking you, and why I’m asking you to do it.
Don’t leave your phone on. If you can, please put your phone on vibrate or silence while you’re in class.
Don’t do exercises that hurt your body. If I ask you to do something, and it doesn’t feel good, tell me. Or, if you know an exercise is bad for you, tell me. I can give you personalizations or switch up the exercise for you to help you get the same result. You are responsible for your body, and I want movement to feel good.
Do clean the equipment. After class, it is the client’s responsibility to clean their equipment and return it to how you found it. Towels and spray are provided, and five minutes is built in for afterward.
Don’t talk about diets. Pilates is great for every body, regardless of your size, age, strength and abilities. My studio and Pilates classes are welcoming for all, and I never want people to feel judged. I’m plus sized and I can move very well with Pilates. I also don’t want women to be negative while in class; I want my studio to remain a positive environment for all. We don’t need to bond over tearing down our bodies. We need to bond by building each other up.
Want to learn more? I'd love to hear from you! You are always welcome to text/call me at 307.363.0124 or email fjpilates@gmail.com to learn more about taking a Pilates class with me. I look forward to seeing you on the mat!
