Hello, my superstars!

I am so glad you are joining me again in this journey towards your wellbeing! This time, we are going to address one of the concerns beginners often have regarding my classes: “Do I need to buy special equipment for my class?”

So, let’s talk about the equipment I like to use in my classes. Don’t worry, though, if you don’t have any of these items. As a beginner, you can start with your mat and focus on exercises using only your body weight, and then buy your gear little by little as you progress.

The beauty of incorporating these items into your workouts is that it will make the class more diversified and also more fun. And, of course, the significant effects the equipment-based exercises will have on your body are the best incentive. The most important thing is to approach this aspect of your workouts 100% anxiety-free. What is the point of doing something good for you if you are feeling angst about it? So, no worries, just keep an open mind and remember we are doing this at your own pace. Also, there is the possibility that you already own some of the things I use for my classes, and therefore, you won’t have to buy them.

Pilates mat

First and foremost, we have to talk about the Pilates mat. A Pilates mat is thicker than a yoga mat, so this is an item you should buy right away. A thicker mat will make the rolling exercises much more comfortable, so keep that in mind.

Bands and foam rollers

Then, I frequently use bands and foam rollers. My bands of choice are resistance loop bands, and there are many options on the market. Tension levels may vary from x-light, light, medium, heavy, x-heavy. Note: Not to be confused with the long bands with handles or the booty bands.

As far as foam rollers go, the typical full-size roller measures 36” length x 6” diameter. I prefer these measurements, but others can work. You should also know that there are different densities that can release deeper, but a beginner or a very sensitive person may not feel entirely comfortable with that. In my workouts, I either incorporate these exercises into the warm-up during the workout, or do 5 to 10 minutes of rolling at the end of the class.

Dumbbells, kettlebells, etc.

I also use dumbbells, kettlebells, and the kind, for my private sessions mostly. They are fantastic for toning some specific groups of muscles.

TRX

When it comes to TRX, I want to stress that any suspension trainer could work, and I hate to limit people based on equipment or lack thereof. TRX is, of course, the most popular, and TRX HOME2 SYSTEM is fine for exercise from home.

Self-myofascial release: roller and ball

Now, in terms of self-myofascial release, I use a roller and a ball.  A lacrosse ball, tennis ball, or massage ball all work well for the self-myofascial release.  Just like the foam rollers, higher-density balls are not suitable for the newbie.

It is essential to keep in mind that every person is different, and so are the workouts that work best for them. Together, we can decide which kind of workouts are better for you and which equipment you can start incorporating into them. The trick is to enjoy the process, which is the easiest, most effective way to achieve your goals. Let’s do this!