Hailey Bieber may have called Pilates overrated, but the impossible-to-get-off-of waitlist at my reformer studio would undoubtedly say otherwise. If you, too, love a good Pilates workout, you know the pre-class vibes are unmatched: stretching, selfie-ing, catching up with friends. But, according to Kira Jones, founder of Cacti Wellness, a digital lifestyle platform featuring workouts, meditations and productivity tips, your go-to instructor is clocking more than just your cute new 437 workout set. In fact, she’s probably focused on what is (or isn’t) on your feet, and it’s the one mistake that could be sabotaging your workout.
Whether you’re showing up completely barefoot or in your worn-out college tube socks, Jones says this is the ultimate Pilates faux pas. “While some people think it's best to practice barefoot, many mat surfaces are slick or smooth,” she says, “and as you move and sweat, you'll start to slide.”
Take it from me: Plank-to-pikes are hard enough without having to contend with a slick surface and compromised form. “How your feet grip the mat makes all the difference in executing exercises properly,” and that goes for both reformer and mat Pilates. Plus, going barefoot on shared studio equipment could expose you to a whole slew of hygiene risks, like plantar warts and athlete’s foot.
When it comes to practicing Pilates the right way, not just any old no-show sock will do. “Look for grip socks that fit your foot snugly and have ribbing for stretch,” Jones says. “You also want to make sure the grips go all the way from toe to heel and across the width of all five toes.” (On that note, the Cacti Wellness Grip Socks check all those boxes and come in two neutral colorways with a perfectly designed scrunch.)
