Matt, Reformer and Mat Pilates Instructor at Pilates Academy ArjanWritten by Matt, Reformer and Mat Pilates Instructor, Pilates Academy Arjan

For your first session at Pilates Academy Arjan, wear close-fitting breathable clothes like leggings and a fitted top. Opt for clean grip socks over bare feet or regular socks. Bring a water bottle, small towel for sweat, and your booking confirmation. These choices support safe movement on the Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Fuse Ladder, and mats during capped classes of five.

Pilates Academy Arjan offers full-apparatus classical Pilates in Al Barsha South Third. You work with instructors who explain the anatomy of each movement. New clients begin with a three-class package for AED 300 including VAT, booked via Glofox.

What clothing suits a first Pilates session?

Choose fitted garments that stay in place during dynamic exercises. Leggings or fitted shorts paired with a tank top or long-sleeve shirt work well. Loose clothing can catch on apparatus springs or pulleys, which disrupts your form and flow.

Breathable fabrics such as moisture-wicking synthetics or cotton blends keep you comfortable as you build heat. Avoid baggy T-shirts or wide-leg trousers, as they bunch up on the Reformer carriage or Cadillac table. Layers allow adjustment if the studio feels warm.

Pro tip: Darker colours hide sweat marks, common in core-focused work. Test your outfit for full range of motion by reaching overhead and folding forward at home.

Why grip socks over barefoot or regular socks?

Grip socks prevent slips on smooth apparatus surfaces like the Reformer footbar or Chair pedal. The textured soles provide traction during footwork and transitions. Bare feet risk blisters from metal contact, while smooth socks slide off during balances.

Where to get them

Pick up grip socks at sports shops in Dubai Hills or online before your session. They cost around AED 20 to 50 and come in neutral designs. Studios sometimes sell them, but confirm availability when booking.

Regular socks bunch and lack grip, leading to instability in exercises like the Teaser on the mat. Grip versions support precise foot placement, as noted in apparatus guides.

What should you bring besides clothing?

A reusable water bottle lets you sip between sets without leaving the studio floor. Bring a small hand towel to wipe equipment or your face during intense sequences. Your phone stays silenced in a locker; no need for it during class.

If you use a hair tie, pack one to keep long hair secure and out of pulleys. Leave valuables at home or in provided lockers. Your Glofox confirmation arrives by email, so screenshot it for quick check-in.

Not sure about sizes? Call the Arjan studio on +971 56 216 8166 or message us on WhatsApp.

Do you need your own mat or towel?

The studio supplies mats for Matwork classes and cleans apparatus between sessions. A personal small towel handles your sweat, respecting shared equipment. No need for a full yoga mat, as apparatus has padded surfaces.

For hygiene, some bring a thin sweat towel to place under hands or feet on shared bars. This practice aligns with group class etiquette in small capped sessions. Avoid large towels that clutter the floor space.

Review studio cleaning protocols on arrival to ease concerns. This setup supports smooth progression from beginner footwork to advanced sequences.

How do you prepare your body before arriving?

Arrive hydrated and with a light snack 90 minutes prior, such as a banana or nuts. Avoid heavy meals to prevent discomfort during abdominal engagement. Shower if possible for your comfort in close group settings.

Post-class considerations

Plan for loose clothing to change into after, as you may feel warmer. A post-session stretch, like those in post-class recovery stretches for Dubai Hills attendees, aids cooldown. Water refills quickly replace fluids lost.

Rest if sore the next day; classical Pilates builds control gradually. Link this prep to breathing basics from first Mat class preparation.

What if you forget an item?

The studio lends grip socks for a small fee if you arrive without. Water is available, though bringing your own avoids queues. Instructors guide bare feet initially but recommend grips for safety on the Fuse Ladder or Chair.

For clothing slips, borrow a spare band from staff. Focus remains on form over perfection for newcomers. This flexibility helps Dubai Sports City or JVC commuters settle in quickly.

Check navigating Building 88 access alongside packing to arrive prepared.

Common questions

Can I wear outdoor trainers to class?

No, remove shoes at the door to protect apparatus and mats. Grip socks suffice for all surfaces. Trainers leave dirt and hinder foot articulation in exercises like Reformer footwork.

Should women wear a sports bra?

Yes, a supportive sports bra handles core compressions and inversions. Pair with a fitted top for modesty during Chair push-downs. Men opt for compression shirts for similar stability.

Do I need to bring Pilates-specific gear?

No, standard fitness wear works for introductory classes. Grip socks are the main specialist item. Apparatus handles the rest, unlike reformer-only studios nearby.

Is there changing space available?

Yes, lockers and changing areas accommodate quick swaps. Arrive in workout gear to maximise class time. Sessions run from 7 AM to 10 PM weekdays in Arjan.

What about jewellery or accessories?

Remove rings, watches, and necklaces to avoid snags on springs. Earrings can catch during roll-downs. Keep it minimal for safety on Cadillac or Fuse Ladder.