Shopping for someone who loves Pilates, or who keeps saying she wants to start? The best Pilates gifts are things she will actually use at home between classes, or instead of them. Here are ten ideas across different budgets, from small stocking stuffers to a complete starter set.
Full disclosure: we make one of the items on this list (number 10). Everything else is a general category you can find from many brands.
Small gifts and stocking stuffers
1. Grip socks
Non-slip socks are the Pilates accessory people go through fastest. They help on wood floors at home and are required in many studios. A pair in her favorite color is a safe, useful gift.
2. A reusable water bottle
Simple, but always appreciated. Look for one that fits a car cup holder and a gym bag pocket.
3. A set of loop resistance bands
Mini loop bands in a few strengths make glute bridges, clamshells and side steps harder in a good way. They weigh almost nothing and travel well.
4. A printable workout plan
If she is new to Pilates, structure helps more than gear. Print a plan, add a few colored pens for ticking off days, and wrap it with one of the small gifts above. Our 28-Day Pilates Challenge is a free printable PDF you can use for this.
Mid-range gifts
5. A Pilates ring
The ring (or magic circle) adds light resistance to classic mat moves for the inner thighs, glutes, chest and arms. Look for padded grips on both sides. Not sure what she would do with it? Here are five beginner Pilates ring exercises.
6. A mini exercise ball
A small, soft ball (around 9 to 10 inches) supports the lower back in curl-ups and adds a squeeze to bridges. It is one of the cheapest ways to make home workouts feel more like a class.
7. A good mat
A slightly thicker mat is kinder to knees and spines on hard floors. If she already has a yoga mat, skip this one.
8. A stretching strap
A long strap with loops helps with hamstring and hip stretches when flexibility is limited. It is also great after running or long days at a desk.
Bigger gifts
9. A class pack at her local studio
If she loves reformer or mat classes, a pack of sessions at a studio she already goes to is hard to beat. Check which studio before you buy.
10. A complete at-home Pilates kit
For a beginner, or for someone who wants to practice at home between classes, a kit bundles the basics so she does not have to shop piece by piece. Our 14-piece Pilamie kit includes a padded Pilates ring, a mini exercise ball, five loop bands, a long flat band, a figure-8 band, a stretching strap, an arm and thigh toner, two pairs of grip socks and a carry bag. It comes with the 28-day plan so she knows exactly what to do with each piece. It is $49.99 with free tracked shipping from our US warehouse.
How to choose
- Complete beginner: a kit or a printable plan with a few basics (ring, ball, bands).
- Goes to classes already: grip socks, a class pack, or a ring for home practice.
- Short on space: bands, a ring and a strap all fit in one small bag.
- Last-minute: print the free plan and add a pair of grip socks.
Whatever you pick, add a note with a date to start together. Having a buddy is one of the easiest ways to stick with a new routine.