A Pilates starter kit should get a beginner through the first months of mat Pilates at home without a second shopping trip. Many kits do that. Some pad the piece count with items you will not use. Here is what matters and how to check a kit before you buy.
Full disclosure: Pilamie sells a 14-piece home Pilates kit, and we link to it below. Use the checklist on any kit.
Quick answer: what a Pilates starter kit for beginners should include
- A Pilates ring (also called a magic circle) for inner thigh, arm and core work
- A small soft ball, around 9 to 10 inches, for support and core exercises
- Resistance bands in more than one strength, so you can progress
- Grip socks for standing work and for studio classes
- A mat, if you do not already have one
That is enough to start. Everything else, like a reformer, weighted balls or a Pilates bar, can wait until you know you enjoy it. Our Home Pilates Kit covers the first four in one box, with a free 28-day plan.
The core of a starter kit
| Piece | What it does | Need it on day one? |
|---|---|---|
| Pilates ring | Squeeze resistance for inner thighs, chest and arms | Yes |
| Small ball | Core work and support under the back or between the knees | Yes |
| Loop bands, several levels | Glutes, hips and legs; lets you progress | Yes |
| Long band or strap | Stretching and assisted moves | Helpful |
| Grip socks | Traction on a mat or hard floor | Helpful |
| Carry bag | Keeps the pieces together | Nice to have |
What a starter kit usually does not include
- A mat. Most kits leave it out. Use the one you have, or a thick yoga mat.
- A plan. Equipment without a routine tends to stay in the bag. Check whether the kit comes with a program.
What you can skip as a beginner
- Reformers, boards and towers.
- Heavy weights.
- Duplicates of the same band in different colors.
How to compare starter kits
- Count real pieces. Five bands are five pieces; make sure they are five different levels.
- Look for sizes. Ring diameter and ball diameter should be listed.
- Check where it ships from. This decides how long you wait.
- Read the return policy.
- See if a routine is included.
How the Pilamie kit fits
- 15 in (38.5 cm) ring with padded grips
- 9.84 in (25 cm) ball with inflation straw
- 5 loop bands from extra-light to extra-heavy
- 59 in long band, 6 ft stretching strap, figure-8 band, arm and inner-thigh toner
- 2 pairs of grip socks, carry bag, printed guide
- A free 28-day plan sent by email with the order
It does not include a mat. It ships from a US warehouse with free tracked shipping to the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., and has 30-day returns.
Read next
For a deeper comparison see the home Pilates kit buying guide. For your first sessions, start with Pilates at home for beginners.
See the full Pilamie Home Pilates Kit, $49.99.