These are the essentials I use during my mat Pilates classes. If you want to recreate the experience at home, all you need is a Pilates mat and a few simple props like these—just press play on your favorite YouTube workout and you’re ready to go.
Sections
4
🧘 Foundation
✨ Pilates Props
💪 Strength & Resistance
👣 Grip & Comfort
🧘 Foundation
The foundation for every home Pilates session.
This is my go-to mat for mat Pilates. The grip is incredible, the cushioning feels just right, and it stays securely in place through every movement.
Lululemon The Mat 5mm
If you’re just getting started with mat Pilates, this is the mat I’d recommend. It offers reliable grip, supportive cushioning, and excellent quality at a more beginner-friendly price.
Manduka Begin Yoga Mat
Looking for a more budget-friendly option? This mat provides comfortable cushioning and a non-slip surface, making it a great choice for home Pilates workouts.
Gaiam Premium Yoga Mat
✨ Pilates Props
Props designed to improve alignment, stability, and muscle activation.
This would be my top pick if you want a studio-quality Pilates ring. It provides smooth, consistent resistance and feels incredibly durable through every exercise.
Balanced Body Ultra-Fit Circle
A studio favorite that’s perfect for improving control and muscle engagement. It adds just the right amount of resistance while helping you activate your core, arms, and inner thighs.
STOTT PILATES Fitness Circle
If you’re looking for a more affordable Pilates ring, this is a great alternative. It’s lightweight, comfortable to use, and perfect for adding resistance to your mat Pilates routine.
ProBody Pilates Ring 14”
A great beginner-friendly Pilates ball for improving balance, stability, and core activation. Easy to inflate, lightweight, and perfect for home workouts.
Trideer Mini Exercise Ball
If you prefer a slightly firmer Pilates ball, this is the one I’d choose. It adds extra support during core work while helping improve posture and body awareness.
ProBody Pilates Mini Exercise Ball
💪 Strength & Resistance
Add resistance to build strength and make your Pilates workouts more challenging.
My favorite type of resistance bands for mat Pilates. The fabric stays in place without rolling or pinching your skin, and the three resistance levels make it easy to increase the challenge as you get stronger.
Arena Strength Fabric Resistance Bands
If you love cute workout gear, these are such a fun option. The soft fabric stays securely in place, and the beautiful feminine colors make every Pilates session feel a little more enjoyable.
Peach Bands Fabric Resistance Bands
One of my favorite ways to make mat Pilates more challenging. They add light resistance without restricting movement, and the sleek design makes them as stylish as they are functional.
Bala Bangles (Ankle Weights)
If you prefer a more traditional ankle weight, these are a great choice. The soft neoprene feels comfortable to wear, while the adjustable straps keep them securely in place throughout your workout.
Gaiam Ankle Weights
I prefer this style of dumbbell over traditional gym dumbbells for mat Pilates. The compact neoprene design feels much more comfortable during floor exercises and provides better control throughout slow, flowing movements.
GAIAM Neoprene Hand Weight Dumbbells
👣 Grip & Comfort
Helps prevent slipping and provides extra stability during your mat Pilates practice.
My favorite grip socks for Pilates. The five-toe design provides extra stability and is especially helpful if your feet tend to get sweaty. Plus, they come in so many cute colors and styles.
ToeSox Pilates Socks | Five-Toe Grip for Reformer & Mat
If you prefer a classic grip sock without individual toes, this would be my recommendation. They offer amazing grip, a secure fit, and are a favorite in many Pilates studios.