Top 3 Must-Have Small Equipment when you start Pilates

So, you’ve decided to start Pilates? First of all - CONGRATULATIONS!- amazing choice, and secondly - what took you so long...?! Whether you’re rolling out your mat at home or heading to class, you might be wondering: Do I need any special equipment? Well yes and no - the beauty of Pilates is that you don’t need much, only a mat and cushions.

If you have a nice comfortable floor or rug at home or in class, you might not even need a special mat, but it might be nice to launch your new adventure into wellness by treating yourself to a comfortable mat that you like, since it'll be your faithful companion for many, many years. There are so many to choose from, and it's easy to be bedazzled and distracted by gorgeous designs and colours, but PLEASE DO make sure you check the thickness of the mat, especially if you have any back issues. Mats that are about 15mm thick are generally a good option - supportive and comfortable without being too squishy.

Let's talk cushions. Depending on the shape of your spine, you might need to have 1-2 cushions under your head to make sure that your head is in a healthy, supported position without tipping forward or back, creating unwanted strain or restrictions on how we move. This might make you think of soft, lush, comfortable sofa cushions (which by the way are usually much too plump and not so good for Pilates), but Pilates cushions are more like pads that can be stacked to get your head in a position that's exactly right for you both on your back and on your side.

Now, having said all of that - a few small props can take your practice to the next level and add some extra spice. Here are three pieces of equipment that are affordable, oh-so-effective, and they don't take up a lot of space at home or in your Pilates bag either:

1. Hand Weights (0.5 kg max) - Tiny But Mighty!

You might think, Half a kilo? That’s nothing! But don’t be fooled - Pilates is all about precision and endurance, not brute strength. Light hand weights add a sneaky challenge to upper-body movements, helping to tone and sculpt your arms without compromising control or form. You’ll feel the burn in no time!

Try This: Hold a weight in each hand while doing Arm Circles or pulses in a standing posture - your shoulders will thank (and maybe curse) you later.

2. Resistance Bands - Your Portable Pilates Partner

These stretchy bands are absolute game-changers. They provide extra resistance for strength-building exercises and can even assist with stretching. Plus, they roll up small enough to fit in your pocket, making them the ultimate travel-friendly Pilates tool. I would start with a medium resistance one.

Try This: Loop a band around your thighs, while lying on your side, doing Oyster for instant glute activation. You're welcome.....!

3. The Squidgy Ball - Your Core’s New Best Friend

Also known as the soft Pilates ball, this little guy is magic for deep core engagement. Placing it under your lower back, between your knees, or even under one foot can transform familiar exercises, making them either more supportive or extra challenging. These come in different sizes, I recommend the 9' one (ca 23 cm).

Try This: Squeeze the ball between your knees while doing a Spine Curl - your inner thighs and glutes will fire up like never before!

With these three simple tools, you can enhance your Pilates practice, making it more engaging, effective, and fun. Plus, they won’t take up much space, so no excuses!

If you're tempted to get these Top 3 things, or a any other Pilates equipment for that matter I suggest looking at either of these two British companies.

Mad-hq.com

Physicalcompany.co.uk

They have a great selection of products, I have used both of them myself many times, and have always been very happy with the quality of the equipment, service and delivery (and no I'm not sponsored to recommend them.... I've just had a great experience with them).