Thinking about starting Pilates at home, but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone. The most common questions people ask are:
- What do I need for a good Pilates workout at home?
- Are online Pilates videos enough to see results?
- How do I choose the right Pilates teacher or program?
- What equipment do I need for Pilates?
- Can I do Pilates at home without a reformer?
You don’t need an expensive gym membership to get results; you just need the right program, guidance, and a few essentials to create a setup you’ll actually use.
Step 1 - Follow a Proper Program and a Qualified Coach
One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting Pilates at home is following random YouTube workouts from people who are not certified. While it’s amazing that so many people want to share their routines online, not all of them are safe or effective. If you’re not careful, practicing poor form can not only limit your results but also put you at risk of injury.
That’s why it’s so important to do your research and choose your instructors wisely. I created T — F Studio to give you safe, effective, and science-backed workouts you can trust. I’m certified in both mat and reformer Pilates, as well as a certified health coach, and I’ve designed my method to sculpt lean muscle and build strength without bulk.
Step 2 - Get the Basics Right with My Gift to You
As a gift, I’m giving you a full-length Pilates class from my studio (click here for the workout). It’s designed to help you nail the basics and build a strong foundation, especially important when you’re working out at home without a teacher there to correct your form.
Start here to set yourself up for safe, effective, and rewarding results. Try this class before you commit, and see how the right instruction and setup can transform your at-home workouts. And if you are still not ready, no problem. I also share free workouts on my YouTube channel so you can explore at your own pace.
When you’re ready to level up, my full T — F Studio library (visit here) has everything you need: specialized programs, body-part focus, reformer workouts, and a wide range of equipment and toolkits to keep your practice consistent and challenging. It’s more than just workouts; it’s a method built to deliver results, safely, at home.
Step 3: Create Your At-Home Pilates Setup
The right props make a huge difference in how effective and enjoyable your workouts feel. You don’t need everything at once, but here are the pieces I use daily that help mimic studio-style results at home.
1. The Classic Pilates Ball
It’s a small prop but makes a big difference, especially in core work. It’s a very versatile prop that can help you enhance your balance, flexibility, coordination, and overall strength (click to shop here).
2. Hand Weights to Tone and Strengthen
For sculpting and boosting your intensity, get yourself some hand weights. These are from Amazon and are essential for adding resistance to your arms, shoulders, and core (click to shop here).
3. Ankle and Wrist Bangles
I love Bala for sneaking resistance in. I’ll throw these on during a walk and within many of my classes. You can use on your wrists or ankles. They are versatile and make a major difference in muscle activation (click to shop here).
4. Mat
A good mat is everything. Especially for core work on your back. This Bala mat doesn’t slip, wipes clean, and makes a huge difference in how supported you feel (click to shop here).
5. Grip Socks for Pilates
The ultimate Pilates item to add to your cart if you don’t have any yet. If you’ve ever slipped on a reformer, you know why these are essential. They keep me secure, and they’re cute enough to wear around after class, too (click to shop here).
6. Booty Band to Intensify Your Workout
I designed this one because I was tired of bands slipping mid-class. The T — F booty band stays in place with a non-slip interior lining, and it’s lightweight with medium resistance. You can find me using this in many of my workouts within the library. It’s perfect for glute activation, leg lifts, and sculpting. Plus, it’s easy to take with you on-the-go (click to shop here).
7. Foam Roller or Gliders
In my studio, I also offer reformer classes, but if you don’t have access to one, don’t worry, I offer my popular reformer on the mat, and a foam roller is perfect for a lot of these exercises to mimic a reformer. A foam roller is also great to have on hand for stretching sore muscles, releasing tension, and even aiding lymphatic drainage. It’s one of the simplest tools that makes a big impact (click to shop here).
Step 4: Upgrade Your Workout Mood
Working out at home doesn’t mean you can’t get a high-quality class experience at home. Pilates isn’t just about the workout; it’s about how you feel while doing it. A few small upgrades can help turn your home into a mini studio.
Heater - Sweat it out by turning up the heat for an extra challenge and feel the burn.
Lofti Lamp (smart lighting) - Smart lighting can help set the vibe and focus for your workout.
Alo Candle - My personal favorite candle scent. Engages your senses and helps unwind after a workout.
Beats Studio Buds to Focus - Noise-cancelling headphones for zero distractions or while out on a walk. Try out Tasha’s Spotify Playlist
Water Bottle - Never without it. Hydration is a non-negotiable.
Step 5 - Upgrade Your Go-to Activewear
How you feel in your workout gear makes a difference. These are some favorite sets I rotate between for comfort, support, and style:
Fall Ready Comfort: Cold Brew Ribbed Mock Neck Tank + Flared Leggings
This is my fall uniform. The Cold Brew set is comfy, flattering, and transitions seamlessly from Pilates to running errands. The ribbed mock neck tank paired with the classic sweatpants is effortless but still elevated.
Vuori “All the Feels” Set - On days I want something buttery soft yet supportive, this is it. I’ve honestly lounged in this set as much as I’ve worked out in it, it’s that comfortable. Perfect for both strength-focused sessions and recovery days.
Alo Set -This fabric is next-level soft. It’s supportive without feeling restrictive, which makes it ideal for Pilates and stretching.
Browse all my recommended essentials here.
Final Thoughts
The best at-home Pilates workout isn’t about having fancy equipment or spending hours every day. The biggest mistake people make is not treating it as a dedicated moment for themselves. When you prepare, do your research, and carve out intentional time, you can turn your home into an elevated studio experience.
Following the right program, committing to small steps, and setting yourself up with the proper essentials will make all the difference. These tools are designed to help you feel stronger, more consistent, and inspired with every workout.
Try my free class today and see why T — F Studio is more than just workouts, it’s a method and a mindset. Make the most of it.