What You Need to Know Before Your First Synergy Pilates Nashville Session

Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or a total beginner, trying something new can be a little intimidating. If you’ve booked your first Pilates session, you’re on your way to discovering a full-body workout that can strengthen your core, improve your flexibility, and leave you feeling more energized. But before you step onto the mat (or reformer!), there are a few things to keep in mind to make your first session as enjoyable and effective as possible.

1. Pilates Is for Everyone—No Matter Your Fitness Level

One of the most important things to know before your first session is that Pilates is designed to be accessible to people of all fitness levels. Whether you're new to exercise, recovering from an injury, or an athlete looking to improve your performance, Pilates can be adapted to meet your needs. The exercises can be modified to suit your abilities, so there’s no need to worry about not keeping up.  Your instructor will guide you through each movement with patience and care, ensuring you’re doing each exercise safely and effectively. This makes Pilates a great choice for beginners, as well as those looking to advance their fitness journey.

2. Complete the Required Forms

Before your first session, you'll need to sign a few forms to ensure a smooth and safe workout. These will include a waiver and a client intake form as well as a travel and parking policy. The intake form is particularly important because it provides your instructor with valuable information about your fitness goals, any injuries or limitations, and how they can best support you during your Pilates sessions. These forms should populate when you first register for a class, but if you have trouble accessing them, please reach out to us. Hard copies of all forms are available upon request. 

3. Ensure Adequate Parking or an Agreed-Upon Location

Since you're booking a mobile Pilates session, be sure to have an agreed-upon location where the instructor can set up the mobile studio as outlined in our Parking and Travel Policy. Whether it's your home or another preferred spot, ensuring there is adequate parking space for the trailer is essential for a seamless session. This will allow the instructor to easily unload the necessary equipment and get started without any issues.

4. Wear Comfortable, Fitted Clothing

What you wear to your first Pilates session can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the workout. Opt for comfortable, form-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely. Tighter-fitting workout attire like leggings or joggers and a fitted top will ensure you feel supported and comfortable as you move through the exercises. Avoid overly baggy clothes, as they can interfere with your range of motion and may make it harder for your instructor to assess your form. For a Pilates session on a reformer, you’ll also want to wear clothing that doesn’t restrict your movements or get caught in the equipment.

5. Don’t Forget Your Grippy Socks!

For your safety and comfort, it’s important to wear Pilates grippy socks to your Pilates session. These socks help improve your traction and stability, especially during exercises on the reformer or mat. They also help prevent slipping and ensure that you stay grounded during the workout. If you don't have them, Synergy Pilates Nashville has some available for purchase. 

6. Hydrate Before and After Your Session

Pilates is a low-impact, but still highly effective, workout. As with any physical activity, it’s important to stay hydrated before, during, and after your session. Drink plenty of water before you arrive to ensure you’re feeling energized, and have a bottle of water with you to sip throughout the session if needed.

7. Expect to Work Your Core

A key component of Pilates is strengthening your core—the muscles around your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis. While Pilates works your entire body, you’ll likely feel your core muscles engage throughout the session. A strong core is the foundation of almost every movement in Pilates and plays a critical role in improving posture, balance, and overall strength. Don’t be surprised if you feel your abdominal muscles working in ways you’ve never noticed before. This focus on the core is one of the reasons Pilates is so effective, but it can also be challenging, especially in the beginning.

8. Don’t Worry About Perfection

Pilates is all about progress, not perfection. As a beginner, you may not be able to complete every exercise with perfect form or reach your full range of motion, and that’s okay! The goal is to focus on your body’s unique abilities and gradually build strength, flexibility, and coordination. Remember, Pilates is a practice, and just like any other workout, you’ll improve over time. Don’t worry if you need to modify an exercise or take breaks—you’re doing great!

9. Communication Is Key

Unlike a typical crowded gym or studio setting, Pilates is a highly personalized experience. It's essential to be prepared to communicate with your instructor. Make sure to discuss your goals, limitations, and any injuries you may have. This helps your instructor tailor your session to your specific needs, ensuring that you get the most out of each workout. In addition, feel free to ask questions or request adjustments to exercises during the session. The one-on-one attention allows for more meaningful feedback and ensures your session is as effective as possible.

Ready to Begin Your Pilates Journey?

At Synergy Pilates Nashville, we’re excited to guide you through every step of your Pilates practice. Whether you’re new to Pilates or looking to deepen your experience, our personalized sessions are designed to help you feel confident, strong, and centered in your body.

Contact us today to book your first session and take the first step toward transforming your mind and body with Pilates. We can’t wait to see you!

-Carly Van Syckle

Founder, Owner, Instructor