Like a large majority of the fitness trends of the moment, hot pilates has TikTok to thank for its virality. While yoga in elevated temperatures has long been ingrained into the wellness space, it has only been in the last couple of years that you could practice heated pilates in the UK.
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New dedicated studios are popping up – from Yours to Good Good Studio – while luxury gym chains are expanding their schedules to include the sweat-inducing session as part of their offering – be it Third Space or Heartcore.
Pilates is favoured as a low-impact activity that tones, improves flexibility and builds core strength. By turning up the temperatures, this is taken to the next level as muscles feel looser, engaged and challenged, while reducing the likelihood of injury. It also boosts circulation.
At 35°C to 40°C, the heat is on during the mat-based workout – so the right sweat-proof kit is essential. The optimal combination of heat-proof activewear is the key to success in the infrared heated room. “You want pieces that are lightweight, breathable and able to handle heat and sweat while still allowing you to move freely,” explains Georgia Christie, head of operations at hot sculpt studio Yours.
She advises to look for seamless, sweat-wicking fabrics as “they stretch with the body, breathe and dry fast, making them ideal for infrared classes where you really feel the burn.” It’s the Adanola collection that Christie favours and, in particular, the Impact Seamless set. “The seamless fabric is soft, stretchy and supportive without feeling heavy, making it perfect for sweaty workouts. I have found Adanola sets are built to last, which is key when you’re washing your sets frequently after class.” She adds, “The rich coffee bean tone is on-trend and suits all skin tones, while the deeper colour helps disguise sweat patches so you can move confidently while you work up that amazing infrared-induced sweat.”
Below, considering the expert’s recommendation, as well as my own experience in the infrared studio (it is my New Year’s resolution to go at least once a week), is your guide to what to wear to hot pilates. Think activewear to keep you cool and composed through the roll-ups, roll-overs and the hundreds at heatwave-like temperatures.
What To Wear To Hot Pilates, According To Vogue
While a low-impact class, heated pilates can feel like a high-intensity activity, which is why you will still want to look for medium support with movement. Christie confirms this, she details that you want to feel supported, “but still free to move through the upper body”.
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“For infrared workouts, I recommend shorts instead of leggings,” explains the expert. “Leggings can sometimes feel too warm in the heat, whereas shorts help keep you cool and give you more freedom to move, especially during dynamic and standing sequences.”
She adds, however, that if you are bracing the cold straight from the studio, throw on the On Studio Flared Tights. “I love pieces that blend functionality with lifestyle wear. These tights are flattering, comfortable, and the fabric feels amazing against the skin. You can expect to get a compliment when wearing these!”
Some will prefer to forgo a top entirely to reduce the amount of layers in the heated pilates class, but Christie says, “If you prefer a little more coverage, you can add a lightweight top, just make sure the armpits stay free so the body can breathe and regulate heat.”
At most studios, unless you are wearing grip socks, you won’t be allowed in the class. Some people may prefer to go barefoot, but these specialised socks will keep you stable throughout, even and especially when you’re sweaty.
