Five ways to make your at-home Pilates practice more effective, according to instructors

Pilates can boost your mood, build strength and enhance your posture. While in-person classes are great if you're looking for a buzzy atmosphere and expert guidance, they're not the only way to reap the benefits of Pilates.

With the right focus, commitment and form, an at-home session can be just as rewarding. We asked three certified Pilates instructors for their top tips to help you get the most out of your living room sessions.

Expert tips to enhance your Pilates practice at home

Focus on your breath

Being aware of your breath and consciously changing your breathing pattern is a core principle of Pilates.

"Controlled breathing is the foundation of Pilates," says Sally Kendrick, Pilates instructor at MK Reformed. "So inhale through your nose to feel your ribs expand, and exhale through your mouth to engage your deep core muscles," she says.

"Proper breath control enhances muscle activation, improves endurance and helps maintain focus throughout your practice."

Aim to synchronize movements with your breath to enhance core engagement and stability.

Prioritize quality over quantity

Unlike other forms of exercise, such as a HIIT class, Pilates emphasizes precision and control over speed or repetitions.

"Move mindfully and focus on proper form and alignment," says Kendrick. "Engaging the correct muscles with small, intentional movements is far more effective than rushing through exercises, leading to better results and reduced risk of strain."

Book a 1:1 session

It may seem counterintuitive when you’re aiming for at-home convenience, but Jill Drummond, director of programming and education at BODYBAR Pilates suggests booking a private session to master the basics.

"Having an experienced instructor observe your movement and correct your form can make a significant difference," Drummond says. "It can enhance your practice and help you avoid injury."

Find an online instructor you like

Online classes offer everything from a gentle stretching session to more dynamic workouts. It’s worth exploring until you find an instructor who suits you.

"There are so many amazing options online, both for free on YouTube and via apps and websites, so it's worth shopping around until you find someone you really like," says Pilates instructor Grace Hurry.

"Consider whether their voice motivates you, if the pace of the class is too quick or slow and if you feel their instructions are clear. This will help you make good progress, quickly," she adds.

If you're looking for options, take a look at this round-up of the best online Pilates classes compiled by an expert instructor.

Invest in a good mat

One of the best things about mat Pilates is that you need very little equipment to start—as the name suggests, you just need a mat.

According to Hurry, the right mat can make all the difference. Instead of using a yoga mat you have had lying around for years, it’s worth investing in one specifically made for Pilates.

"Buying a thicker, Pilates-specific mat will help you enjoy your practice more by avoiding potential bruising," Hurry says. "My favorite Pilates mat is from BASI Systems. It is on the pricey side, so maybe layer a couple of towels under a thinner mat before committing to a more expensive—but worth it—mat."

Shop Pilates mats

Need a mat for your new Pilates habit? Check out the options below. These cushioned mats are especially thick and ideal for performing Pilates beginner workouts.