My Favorite Tools to Elevate Your Pilates Workout
This is the Balanced Body Pilates Arc on the Reformer being used in a Prenatal Reformer Class at Move Well Fitness.
Hello, my name is Jessica McGarvey, and I'm a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher and the owner of Move Well Fitness in Lumberton, TX. With a specialization in Postpartum Corrective Exercise and over 15 years of teaching experience, I’m passionate about helping my clients reach their goals and feel empowered moving in their bodies. Before becoming a Pilates instructor, I had the privilege of being a professional ballet dancer, which deepened my understanding of movement, alignment, and strength.
In my sessions, I often recommend that clients incorporate exercises into their home practice to enhance their progress between sessions. If you’re part of my Postpartum Corrective Exercise Program, I’ll provide you with a customized home exercise plan tailored to your unique needs. To make the most of your practice, you’ll need a few key tools—and in this blog, I’ve shared all of my favorite products to help you feel supported and successful on your fitness journey.
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Core Pilates Equipment
Pilates Mat: I like this one from Gaiam. It is nice and thick, which helps your hip feel better in side-lying Pilates exercises. Plus, it comes with a handy strap for added convenience while on the go, and it comes in a variety of pretty colors!
Resistance Bands and Loops: There are lots of exercises where these bands help add to your home exercise practice. These bands from Theraband are good quality and have lasted me in my Home Pilates Studio for several years without ripping. You can tie these bands in a loop for exercises that require a looped band without needing to buy an additional set. Although, if you are like me, haha, and don’t want to take the time to tie and untie the bands, get this set of looped bands as well.
Small Pilates Props
Yoga Blocks: I use these yoga blocks from Gaiam at Move Well Fitness almost every day. I use it on the Pilates Mat and Reformer to help prop the body or add a little adductor squeeze. I also use it in several Postpartum Corrective Exercises.
Pilates Ball: This little Pilates ball is amazing! I have taught an entire Pilates mat class using this ball. I also use it frequently on my Pilates Reformer, Whole Body Vibration Plate, and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Program.
Foam Roller: This is one of my favorite foam rollers. It is smaller in diameter and softer than most foam rollers. It is from The Melt Method and is great for fascia work. They also make it in a Half Foam Roller. If you want more of a traditional foam roller that is more cost-effective, this one from Amazon is firm and great. I recommend getting a 36” foam roller so you have more options with the exercises you can do with it. Teaching a class on the foam roller is fun (well, maybe that is just me, ha). My body feels like it has had a workout and a massage afterwards.
Toe Separators: I have clients get toe spacers if they have a hard time separating their toes for certain exercises in my Postpartum Corrective Exercise Program, as well as for use on the Whole Body Vibration Plate. This is a great and affordable option from Mind Bodhi. A more durable option, and a little more investment, would be Yoga Toes.
The Pilates Ball that is listed under Small Props above is being used for a Postpartum Corrective Exercise.
Soft Tissue Release Tools
Lacrosse Balls: I use these Lacrosse Balls for muscle flossing and soft tissue release, and they are needed in several postpartum corrective exercises. Need an option that is softer than a Lacrosse Ball? Try a tennis ball or this variety set that comes in different sizes and firmness options.
Melt Method Hand and Foot Balls: This therapy kit comes with eight latex-free hand and foot therapy balls, one bunion reducer band, an instructional guide, and a travel case. This was a must-take with me when we traveled to Banff, Canada, last year to recover after our many hiking days.
Home Pilates Studio Essentials
Balanced Body Pilates Arc: This Pilates Arc can be used by itself for a full workout on the mat or can be used on the Reformer. This is one of my favorite tools to use at my Studio. If I’m doing a lot of yard work or manual labor around the house and my back is hurting, this is my go-to tool to help me feel better. It is pricey but worth the investment.
Whole Body Vibration Plate: I have this one from Lifepro and love it. It was my Christmas gift last year because fitness tools are usually on my wishlist. It helps build muscle mass, increase bone density, circulation, and lymphatic drainage. I have noticed the biggest difference in lymphatic drainage. My daughter’s functional nurse practitioner was pleased when she found out I had one and wanted my daughter to use it, too. I put a show on and let her stand on the vibration plate on a low setting.
Clothing and Accessories
Pilates Socks: Pilates socks are a must in a Pilates Studio. I personally love the brand Tavi Noir and you can get them in grey ankle, 3 pack, and crew socks. Pro tip- don’t dry your Pilates socks in the dryer, let them air dry. I have accidentally let mine get into the dryer several times, and they start to lose their grip. So, learn from me and don’t do it.
Water Bottle: These water bottles from Owala are so cute and come in a variety of colors. You can toss it in your bag on your way to your Pilates Class. I love my Stanley. It fits so well in my car, and I love that it holds so much water. I hate running out of water while I’m out and about.
