Starting Pilates? Here’s Everything You’ll Need To Crush Your Workout at Home or in the Studio

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Although Pilates has been around since the early 1900s, it's recently become the must-try workout class of the decade. Celebrities including Lori Harvey and Martha Stewart have revealed that it's their secret to sculpted arms, a toned booty, and a snatched waist. 

The celeb-loved form of exercise is even trending on social media, with users turning it into a full-blown aesthetic they've dubbed "Pilates princess."

All that really means is that you enjoy regular Pilates workouts, and wearing cute workout sets and stylish fitness accessories.

The good news is that anyone can become a Pilates princess. However, you will need to add a few things to your cart if you actually want to do Pilates and not just look the part. 

Our team of shopping editors has pulled together some of the top equipment you need to enter your Pilates princess era, from ankle weights to cute and functional sports bras.

Why is Pilates good for you?

Pilates is a low-impact, effective way to build strength. Experts say Pilates can help improve core stability, balance, and flexibility, as well as promote better posture.

What Pilates equipment do you need?

Apart from a supportive sports bra and matching leggings, you'll also need some basic equipment (otherwise called props by instructors) if you want to do Pilates at home.

The equipment you need depends on what kind of exercises you'll be doing, so we've included everything you might need to crush your workout below. 

Consider this your Pilates essentials kit!

To build muscle, dumbbells and ankle weights (which can be adjusted from one to five pounds) are a must-have. Make basic moves more challenging by adding a set of resistance bands or a fitness ring to your routine. And of course, you'll need a trusty Pilates mat.

If you're going to a Pilates studio, you likely won't need any props, but you will need a pair of required grippy socks if it's a reformer or megaformer class, and you can't do a pre- or post-workout session without a cute gym bag.

Whether you plan to do an at-home workout or are headed to a studio, keep reading to shop all the tools you'll need to become a certified Pilates princess right now!