Getting back into a routine is always a little more fun when you actually like the things you’re using. These are the Pilates and yoga finds I’d genuinely look at for a fresh routine—from pretty mats and grippy socks to cute accessories that make wor...
Sections
4
The Basics I’d Actually Start With
Grip Socks & Studio Accessories
Cute Things for Your New Routine
The Extras I’d Keep Around
The Basics I’d Actually Start With
If I were starting a Pilates or yoga routine from scratch, these are the things I’d look at first. Nothing too complicated—just the basics that make working out at home or at a studio a little more comfortable.
If I’m spending more on a mat, I want one that feels good under my hands and knees and actually stays put. Definitely a splurge, but I can see myself using it for years.
Lululemon The Mat 5mm
This is not the mat I’d want to carry around town—it’s pretty substantial! But for home workouts, I love the idea of having something super sturdy that doesn’t slide around.
Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
This is where I’d start if I were still figuring out whether I’ll actually stick with the routine. No need to spend a fortune on day one.
Gaiam Premium 2-Color Yoga Mat
Definitely cute, but they’re not just sitting there looking pretty. I like being able to add a little resistance to wrists or ankles without holding heavy weights the whole time.
Bala Bangles Wearable Weights
Not something I’d call an essential, but it’s a fun option for Pilates-style strength work. I’d probably add this later rather than buy it as part of my starter kit.
Bala Beam Weighted Bar
I like how simple this is. It takes up basically no space and gives you another way to make familiar Pilates inner-thigh and core movements a little more challenging.
Bala Ring
Grip Socks & Studio Accessories
These are the smaller things that aren’t necessarily life-changing, but they can make studio workouts feel so much more comfortable. And yes, cute grip socks absolutely count as motivation. 😂
Cute grip socks are probably my favorite little Pilates purchase. They’re practical for reformer classes, but I also just like having fun with the colors and patterns.
Tavi Noir Grip Socks
I’d probably grab a couple of pairs if I were going to regular classes. They’re an easy way to add a little personality without buying another entire workout outfit.
Pointe Studio Grip Socks
These are worth looking at if non-slip traction is your main priority. I like the low-profile styles when I don’t want anything bulky around my ankles.
ToeSox Half-Toe Grip Socks
This makes much more sense to me for travel than trying to pack a full-size mat. It’s thin enough to fold up and throw into a suitcase without taking over everything.
Manduka eKO SuperLite Travel Mat
Very basic, very inexpensive, and genuinely useful. I’d keep a couple around for stretching, balance, and modifying movements when needed.
Gaiam Yoga Block Set
Another inexpensive little accessory that actually comes in handy. I’d use it mostly for post-workout stretching and flexibility work.
Gaiam Yoga Strap
Cute Things for Your New Routine
A new workout routine is more fun when you actually like your outfit. These are the pieces I’d pick for that polished studio look, with a mix of splurges and budget-friendly finds.
I’m a sucker for a good matching workout set, and these have that sleek, polished studio look. Definitely more of a treat-yourself purchase than a necessity.
Alo Yoga 7/8 High-waist Airlift Legging
These are the kind of buttery-soft leggings I’d happily wear beyond the workout too. Pilates, coffee runs, errands… basically the whole day if I’m being honest!
Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant
If I don’t want to spend Lululemon money on every pair of leggings, I’d look here first. The price makes it much easier to experiment with fun colors.
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Leggings
I like a sports bra that doesn’t look overly sporty. This would work nicely with high-waisted leggings when I want a clean, simple studio outfit.
Alo Yoga Airlift Line Sports Bra
I’d pick this when I want a little more coverage and support. It’s the kind of top I could see wearing for Pilates, yoga, or even just lounging around.
Girlfriend Collective: Sports Bras
Completely unnecessary, but ridiculously cute! 😂 This is definitely an “I want my outfit to do all the work” kind of purchase.
Hot Shot Onesie
I like having a tiny bag for the things I don’t want floating around inside my bigger gym bag—keys, studio card, phone, lip balm, and all that random stuff.
Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
The Extras I’d Keep Around
The extra essentials that make the whole routine easier—from carrying your gear and staying hydrated to sore-muscle recovery afterward.
If I’m going to a studio regularly, I want a bag that can hold more than just socks and a water bottle. This has enough room for a change of clothes and all my extras.
Beis Weekender Bag
I’d rather have one good bottle I actually remember to bring than five cute ones sitting at home. The built-in straw spout is super convenient mid-workout.
Owala FreeSip Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Not glamorous, but probably more useful than another cute accessory! I’d keep one around for those post-workout days when everything feels a little tight.
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller
This is definitely a splurge, so I wouldn’t recommend it as a beginner essential. But if you’re working out regularly and love recovery tools, it’s a nice upgrade.
Hyperice Hypersphere Go Massage Ball
Honestly, this is partly an aesthetic purchase! 😂 But if your workout area is also part of your living room, I can understand wanting a mat that looks nice left out.
Bala Mat
Another “do I need this? Absolutely not. Do I kind of want it? Yes.” 😂 It’s compact, comfortable to hold, and adds a little extra weight to home workouts.