Make The Best
Pilates Apparel Choices
Comfort, fit and style - find out what to look for when buying your pilates apparel.
This decision could be the difference between a good workout and a great workout.
There is more general advice for buying
exercise fitness clothing - click here.
You can find information on fabric types and seasonal buying tips.
But the focus on this page is specifically on pilates apparel.
As the popularity of pilates grows, the value of the word grows with it. In terms of marketing, this is great.. for the retailers, not so good for you (the buyer).
This means that clothes that are directly marketed as pilates clothes, may be more expensive than the same thing without the word "pilates" attached to it.
Don't get me wrong though. There are sites dedicated to pilates that offer a very good service for clothing. There are also sites offering pilates branded clothes at discount prices.
So I guess it's a matter of how much you're willing to search for the best deal. My point is, don't necessarily be hooked by the word "pilates" being used to describe clothing.
Pilates apparel is about any clothing that is suitable for pilates. The things that should get your attention are:
Fabrics..The most common are combinations of polyester, nylon, spandex and cotton. They form a good fit and can stretch with your body, vital for pilates. They also repel sweat and keep your body dry, sometimes material such as Dry-Wik(TM) is used to help as well. Organic materials are also making a big break through.
Comfort and fit..Pants should be fitted around your waist and hips, with a slight flare or slit at the legs. Waist can be either elastic or draw-string, whatever suits you best, but never too tight.
Tops are much more varied. Ranging from tank-tops to tee-shirts and halter necks. Most contain an internal/shelf bra for extra support and comfort. If you want extra coverage, then go for longer length tops that won't ride up during your pilates exercises. Raise your arms and move around when trying them on. They should always be fitted, baggy tops will get in the way.
Size..If you're buying online then be sure to check the size charts. A credible retail site should offer you their specific sizing for small, medium and large. They often also have advice on their sizes, so look out for that.
Also always remember to check their return policy, this may differ from site to site. You don't want to make the purchase then find out your stuck with it, if it doesn't fit.
Hygiene..If you workout from home or have your own pilates mat, then you don't need to worry about hygiene so much. But if you share mats or use shared mats in your pilates class, then it's an idea to get some ToeSox(TM).
These are like gloves for your feet. They have separate holes for each of your toes, allowing you to move them as if you were bare foot. They also have gripping on the sole to stop you from slipping on mats or machines.
Final Word
Your pilates apparel should give you that extra bit of confidence in your pilates workouts. Make sure it's comfortable and makes you feel good, above anything else.
The range of styles now mean that you can get even more money's worth, by wearing your pilates apparel as everyday clothes.
Just make sure you keep a clean set for when you're actually doing pilates.
Many clothes now come with antibacterial properties to prevent sweat odour, so you may get away with it once.. I wouldn't recommend it though!
So relax and make the best pilates apparel choices on your way to a comfy core.
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