Pilates Soulful Sunday: Preparing for the Winter Months

A vibrant mix of autumn leaves symbolising the seasonal transition discussed in preparing for winter.

As we find ourselves well into October, there's no denying that the seasons are shifting. For those of us teaching Pilates, this seasonal change brings a moment to pause and reflect on how we can best prepare our bodies, our clients, and our teaching environments for the colder months ahead.

This weekend, for our Pilates event we've been lucky enough to enjoy the gorgeous sunny weather here in North Berwick, Scotland. It’s been an unexpected treat, allowing us to soak in some warmth and light before the true bite of winter sets in. However, as we all know, the UK weather is rarely this kind, especially as we move deeper into the season. Soon, we’ll be facing chilly mornings, frosty evenings, and, for many of us, cold studios with unwelcoming floors.

How Our Bodies Change

The first thing we need to acknowledge is how our bodies react to the colder temperatures. The transition from summer to autumn can sometimes feel like a shock, and even more so as we move towards winter. Muscles tend to feel stiffer in the cold, joints may be less mobile, and it takes longer for our bodies to warm up. For those of us teaching Pilates, this means we need to adjust how we approach both our own practice and how we work with our clients.

Layering for Warmth

As teachers, one of the simplest but most effective ways to combat the cold is by layering our clothing. Start with thermal base layers that are moisture-wicking to keep you warm without overheating. As you warm up throughout your session, you can remove outer layers to maintain a comfortable temperature. For those teaching in colder studios, long-sleeved tops, leggings, and even Pilates socks with grip can help keep you insulated while still allowing full range of movement.

Addressing Cold Facilities

Many of us teach in facilities where heating might be inadequate, or the floors can be particularly cold—often something we forget until we step into the studio in the depths of winter. For this, it’s vital to think about your mat setup. Using thicker mats or adding an extra layer, like a blanket or towel, can prevent the cold from seeping through. If you work on wooden floors, it’s worth considering grip socks or leg warmers to help keep the extremities warm during teaching.

Warm-Ups Are Essential

As temperatures drop, the importance of a thorough warm-up cannot be overstated. Encourage your clients to take their time at the beginning of class to ease into movement, allowing their muscles to gradually warm and their joints to become more mobile. Dynamic stretching, gentle mobilisation, and movements that build heat, such as the Pilates standing series or small equipment work, can be particularly helpful.

Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to forget about hydration when it’s cold outside, but our bodies still need sufficient water, especially as we are more likely to stay indoors where heating can be drying. Encourage your clients (and yourself) to continue sipping water throughout the day, even if they don’t feel as thirsty.

Mental and Emotional Preparation

Finally, the colder months can take a toll on our mental and emotional wellbeing. The shorter days and lack of sunlight can lead to feelings of sluggishness or even seasonal depression. As teachers, we should not only check in with our own mood and energy levels but also be aware of how this change affects our clients. Incorporating mindfulness practices, encouraging reflection, and fostering a sense of community in your classes can help lift the spirits of those around you.

As we embrace October and all that it brings, let’s take a moment to prepare for the winter months ahead, both physically and mentally. Our bodies and our teaching spaces may change with the season, but with the right mindset and preparation, we can continue to thrive and support our clients in doing the same. After all, Pilates is about more than just movement; it’s about creating balance and resilience in every season.

Enjoy the rest of your Soulful Sunday, and here’s to a warm, vibrant winter teaching season ahead!