Short answer: something fitted, something that stays put when you are upside down, and grip socks. Those are required at Ekam Yoga & Pilates, so if you own one thing before your first class, make it those. You do not need new gear otherwise.
Grip socks, every class
We require them here, no exceptions. Regular socks slide on the carriage and bare feet are not permitted, so this is the one item to sort out before you arrive. Any pair with rubber grips on the sole works.
If you would rather not think about it, we keep Ekam Grip Socks at the front desk for $20. Grab a pair on your way in.
Fitted beats loose
This is the one rule that has nothing to do with how you look. Reformer straps and springs catch on loose fabric, and baggy shorts ride up during footwork in ways you will notice.
The Spacedye Midi High Waist Legging from Beyond Yoga is a safe first pair. High rise, thick enough that it will not go sheer in a bridge, and the midi length sits above the ankle so nothing bunches under the foot bar. If you run warm, the Radar 5" Bike Short does the same job with less fabric.
A top you can be upside down in
A lot of Pilates happens lying down or inverted. A loose tee will end up over your face during a roll up. Easy test at home: put it on, bend at the waist, see what happens.
A sports bra on its own works. The Solis Scoop Sports Bra has enough coverage to wear without a layer. If you would rather have one, the Silva High Neck Tank stays where you put it.
What to leave at home
Zippers, buckles, and hardware on the back of anything. You spend a good portion of class lying on a padded carriage, and metal against it is uncomfortable for you and hard on the equipment. Long necklaces, same reason.
Bring water and something to carry your things in. The Daily Tote holds a change of clothes and a bottle without looking like a gym bag when you go for coffee after.
Try it on first
Shoppe Ekam is the boutique inside Ekam Yoga & Pilates at 2700 West Coast Hwy in Newport Beach, so you can pull things on before or after class. Shopping ahead of time? Start with leggings and sports bras.
Not booked yet?
Pick a time on the Pilates schedule and come a few minutes early so you can get settled on the reformer before class starts.