Best Pilates Classes for Beginners in Chicago: Where to Start
Starting Pilates can feel intimidating. How do you know which class is right for you as a complete beginner? And what if you've never touched a Reformer before?
At Core, we believe Pilates is for everyone, regardless of your fitness level, flexibility, or experience. You don't need to be experienced or “bendy” to start. In fact, that's exactly what Pilates will help you build. Whether you're recovering from an injury, getting back into fitness after a break, or just looking for a low-impact workout that challenges you, Pilates meets you where you are.
Our instructors are trained to work with complete beginners every single day. Here's everything you need to know about starting Pilates and which classes are best for first-timers. The best place to start is right here.
Why Pilates Is Perfect for Beginners
Low-impact & highly effective:
Pilates is gentle on your joints while still building strength. Unlike running or high-intensity workouts, you're moving with control and precision. It’s why sometimes you won’t sweat, but I promise, you’re getting a good workout!
Adaptable to your body:
Every exercise can be modified. Whether you have tight hips, a stiff back, limited mobility, postpartum, or you're recovering from surgery, Pilates can be adjusted to work for you. Our instructors are trained to provide modifications in real time.
Builds body awareness:
One of the biggest benefits for beginners is that Pilates teaches you how to move your body correctly. You'll learn what good posture feels like, how to engage your core, and how to move without compensating with the wrong muscles. This supports your other favorite workouts, and your day to day life.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels:
We work with everyone from college athletes to teenagers to people in their 70s and 80s. Pilates adapts to your current ability, which means you'll be challenged wherever you are.
The Best Pilates Class for Complete Beginners: Open Level Reformer
If you're taking your very first Pilates class, start here.
An Open Level Reformer class is designed specifically with beginners in mind. You'll get a gentle warm-up and low-impact exercises suitable for all fitness levels. The focus is on learning controlled movement, breath work, and understanding how to use the Reformer.
What makes it beginner-friendly:
Slower pace with clear instruction
Exercises are accessible for all fitness levels
Instructors provide modifications as needed
Small class sizes (max 5 people) mean more personal attention
You'll learn the foundational movements that show up in every other class
What to expect: The Reformer is a piece of equipment with a sliding carriage, springs, and straps. It looks intimidating at first, but the springs provide support and feedback, which helps you understand what muscles you should be using. Most beginners find Reformer easier to start with than Mat Pilates because the equipment guides your body through proper alignment.
Book an Open Level Reformer Class
How to Get Started: Intro Packages for First-Timers
We offer three intro packages designed to help you find the right fit:
Privates Intro Package ($295): 3 private sessions for personalized, one-on-one instruction. Best if you're nervous about group classes, recovering from an injury, or want fully customized attention from the start. (this is our favorite)
Privates/Group Combo ($255): 2 private sessions + 2 group equipment classes. Best if you want personalized instruction to learn the basics, then the experience of different class types. This is the perfect balance.
Intro Week Membership ($110): Unlimited classes for your first week (one per day). Best if you want to try everything; different instructors, class styles, and both our Lincoln Park and Lakeview locations.
Once You're Comfortable: Other Beginner-Friendly Classes
After you've taken a few Open Level Reformer classes and feel comfortable with the basics, you can start exploring other class types:
Tower: Full-body exercises using the vertical tower (Cadillac). Different angles and support than the Reformer.
Jumpboard: Short, intense cardio intervals added to Pilates movements. Low-impact on joints but gets your heart rate up.
Classical: Joseph Pilates' original order of exercises. Learn the traditional method and sequence.
Sculpt: Faster tempo, higher reps. A great workout if you want to feel your muscles burn.
What About Mat Pilates for Beginners?
Mat Pilates uses only your body weight for resistance, which can make it feel harder than the Reformer. You're working against gravity with no equipment to support or guide you. Many people say Mat Pilates just leaves them with a sore back.
The Reformer provides feedback through the springs and carriage, which helps you understand proper alignment and what you should be feeling. Once you have that foundation from Reformer classes, Mat usually becomes much more effective and enjoyable.
We love Mat Pilates, it can just be difficult to know which muscles to engage if you’re completely new to this kind of movement.
Our recommendation: Start with Open Level Reformer, then add Mat classes once you're comfortable with the basic Pilates principles and movements.
Common Questions From First-Timers
Do I need to be flexible to start Pilates? No! You don't need to be flexible or "in shape" to start. Our instructors work with people of all fitness levels and flexibility. Pilates will help you become more flexible over time.
What if I'm not strong enough? That's exactly why you're here. Pilates builds strength progressively. The springs on the Reformer can assist you when you're starting out, making exercises more accessible. As you get stronger, we adjust the resistance to keep challenging you, and your body weight workouts will feel easier over time.
What should I wear to my first Pilates class? Comfortable workout clothes that allow you to move freely. You don’t need tight clothing or a matching set. If you like grippy socks, you can use those, but they're not required. Bring a water bottle (we have a refill station).
What if I have an injury or chronic pain? Core Chicago Pilates can accommodate all types of injuries, concerns, and workout levels. Let us know before your first class, and our instructors will modify exercises as needed. We're happy to coordinate with your physical therapist or doctor to ensure we're supporting your recovery safely.
I'm pregnant. Can I take Pilates? Yes! As long as your Doctor has given you the go ahead. We'll collaborate with your care team to modify exercises throughout your pregnancy to keep you safe and strong.
How big are the classes at Core Chicago? Our equipment classes have a maximum of 5 people, while Mat classes can accommodate up to 15. These smaller class sizes allow instructors to give you individual attention and ensure everyone gets a safe, effective workout.
When should I arrive? Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before class starts. This gives you time to park, check in, and settle in without feeling rushed. It also gives you a moment to chat with the instructor – they’ll know it’s your first time and help you get settled. Late arrivals (more than 5 minutes) won't be admitted to avoid disrupting the class.
Will I be sore after my first class? Probably! But it's a good kind of sore. Pilates works muscles you didn't even know you had. The soreness usually peaks around day 2 and goes away within a few days.
Why Core Chicago for Beginners?
Comprehensively certified instructors:
Our teachers complete a minimum 500-hour comprehensive Pilates certification.That means they're trained on all equipment and know how to modify for injuries, different fitness levels, and individual bodies. They’re also well versed in breathwork, and many of them have specialized interests beyond their required education.
Small class sizes:
With a max of 5 people in equipment classes, you get way more attention than you would at a big studio with 12+ reformers.
Two Chicago locations:
Lincoln Park (2549 N Racine Ave) and Lakeview (3000 N Sheffield Ave).
Beginner-friendly atmosphere:
We remember what it's like to walk into a Pilates studio for the first time. Our instructors and community are welcoming, not intimidating. Everyone was a beginner once.
Ready to Start?
The hardest part is showing up for your first class. After that, you'll wonder why you waited so long to try Pilates.
How to get started:
Step 1: Choose an intro package that fits your comfort level and budget
Step 2: Book your first Open Level Reformer class
Step 3: Show up 5-10 minutes early, and let your instructor know you're new
We can't wait to meet you.
Core Chicago Pilates Locations:
Lincoln Park: 2549 N Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Lakeview: 3000 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657