By: Elizabeth Rakow
Published On: 8/14/2026
STRONG FOUNDATION:
The Pilates Starter Pack
Pilates is the class of the moment.
A low-impact workout designed to increase core strength, improve mobility, and encourage better posture, this German-founded exercise has been around since the 1920s but has become a modern mainstay in fitness and wellness culture. With a strong social media presence and a permeating aesthetic, Pilates is looking like a strength-training trend that will last long after 2026 has passed.
Want to try it for yourself? Check out the guide below for what to wear, what to pack, and even a few ways you can give this most-loved workout a go at home.
Want to try it for yourself? Check out the guide below for what to wear, what to pack, and even a few ways you can give this most-loved workout a go at home.
START WITH SUPPORT
It should come as a shock to no one that a comfortable workout starts with the right sports bra or soft-stretch tank. Since Pilates is a low-impact workout, you can choose from a wide range of fabrics, silhouettes, and support levels. Comfort is key!
ADD A BEST-OF WORKOUT BOTTOM
You could go with classic high-rise leggings, a most-loved pair of biker shorts, or change up your shape and flex it out with a bubble silhouette–no matter what you choose, the most important thing is that you feel supported and confident.
GET A GRIP (SOCK)
The unsung hero of Pilates! A pair of grip socks will keep you grounded on the mat or reformer while adding just the right amount of stability.
POST-FLOW ESSENTIALS
A cozy sweatshirt or lightweight pullover is your go-to for warm-ups, cool-downs, and coffee runs after class. And of course, no workout would be complete without the perfect bag to store everything in. Here are a few of our favorites:
WORKING FROM HOME?
We’ve got you covered. Try out the Gaiam Pilates Reformer (in fact, we tested this one out for you) for a full workout or choose your favorite mat and some wearable weights to get your flow going from the comfort of your living room.
Want to make sure you don’t miss out on any essentials?
Explore The Pilates Shop
MORE TO READ
1/30/26 | WE TRIED IT
The At-Home Pilates Reformer
Team FP Movement takes on a full studio workout (without leaving the house).
6/5/26 | FEELING THE BURN(OUT):
The Rise of Messy Wellness
In the age of optimization, it can feel like wellness has become yet another performance metric. Has constant self-improvement actually just left us running on empty?
6/26/26 | WAYS TO WEAR:
Awkward-Length Bottoms
How Team FP Movement is wearing this trending style (and making it their own).