You don’t need much to start doing pilates from home- as Tegan proved from teaching classes from pokey hotel rooms you can roll your mat out literally anywhere. However, by making a few clever choices you can create a space that you’ll love practicing Pilates in. We don’t always have control over our environment, especially if we have kids or pets running around, so try to think of your Pilates mat as your space- one that will always be there for you when you need to work out some stress or relax.

So here are some tips and inspiration to get you started!

Tip #1 - You Don’t Need a Big Budget

It’s true that there are a lot of products on the market for at home exercise and some of them can be quite pricey. To get set up you really don’t need much more than an exercise mat, and if you’re really keen perhaps some small hand weights or blocks. By using things you already have around the house, like tins of soup or 1 litre water bottles filled with sand, pillows or rolled up blankets & towels, you can cut down on costs as well as find new ways to recycle, yay!

Tip #2 - Choosing a Mat

Exercise mats can cost anywhere from $10 all the way into the hundreds and there are A LOT of different ones to choose from. For Pilates, we recommend buying a mat that is at least 1.5 cm thick and making sure that it has a good grip so you don’t end up sliding all over the floor. Thicker mats are a good option if you’ll be working out on tiles or hardwood flooring. Look for a mat that’s made from cork, natural rubber or recycled PET bottles if you want something a little more eco-friendly. "

Our favourite is the Happy Nomad Pilates/Yoga Mats, which can be found at https://happynomad.com.au/

"You can decorate your space with plants, paintings, posters or anything that helps you feel comfortable and relaxed. Choose things that reflect your personality and bring you joy. " – Tegan Barton Pilates Instructor

Tip #3 - Choosing a Space

Opt for a space that is quiet and free from other distractions. Spaces that are well lit and have windows or a fan you can use when things get sweaty make for great home studios. You can decorate your space with plants, paintings, posters or anything that helps you feel comfortable and relaxed. Choose things that reflect your personality and bring you joy.

Check out our Pinterest board for inspo!

Tip #4 - Set Up Your Camera For Live Classes

To get the most out of your online live Pilates class, and to help your instructor be able to give you feedback and adjustments it’s important to get your camera set up right. Whether you’re joining in from your phone, tablet, or computer make sure your camera is set up above the area you’re working out in and allows for a wide view of your mat. You can achieve this by using a tripod (if you have one) or propping your device up on a chair, bench or with books or pillows. Make sure your space is well lit and try to face the camera away from the main source of light- otherwise your instructor won’t be able to see you!

There you have it, with these tips you should be able to create an inviting space where you can practice Pilates. Feel free to share photos of your space with us on social media, we’d love to see them!