Even if you only do mat Pilates, you will still need a mat. That’s because it protects your spine. So, it is probably safe to say that you must have accessories to do Pilates. I’m not talking about the new-fangled kind of “Pilates” inventions, but the classic pieces of the puzzle that can really aid you in you routine.
The loop is a pilates accessory that is so simple, yet so crucial. It is at the end of a rope on the reformer or Cadillac and it is what secures your feet when you are doing leg work. One cool advance on this idea is the double loop. It is great because it allows rope adjustment via the loop.
Handles come in many shapes and sizes, but the basic and classic style is still my favorite. Pick the one that is in your price range and you will probably be happy. Over time you can try different styles and materials and you may find one that you prefer over all others.
Poles. Poles are another interesting item that can ad to your over all performance withing different pilates exercises. Maybe you have heard or come across a Gondola pole for use on standing exercises when using the reformer.
There are also other poles, though none as common as the Gondola pole, these are used in many different of the over 500 exercises to ad even more versatility and personality to your workout.
You may soon be exposed to Pilates cushions. They will enable you to get into position that otherwise you may find difficult, impossible, or just downright uncomfortable to get into.
The pilates mat, while it may seem simple, has some aspects that need to be considered. One is the thickness of the mat. This is not the same as a yoga mat because a Pilates mat needs to be thicker. Also, you have foldable mats which may feel better to you or may be more or less convenient. Another consideration is the color and the choice of patterns on the mat. This can and does have an effect on the mindset of the practitioner so this is a real factor in the choice of a mat.
And now you have an idea about some of the many accessories that enhance your pilates experience. Now all you have to do is decide on price, durability, color, materials, availability, etc. Just keep the most important thing in mind and that is look to Pilates for decades of bodywork.
