New Student Checklist

Written By Bettina Williford

Your First Day at Bett Pilates: A Checklist

Before You Arrive

  • Location Check: Verify if your session is at the Grace Studio (Mat, Semi-Private and Private) or the Dunraven Studio (Private lessons for established clients).

  • What to Wear: Choose comfortable, form-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely.

  • Safety First: Ensure your clothes are free of zippers or embellishments that could damage the Balanced Body equipment.

  • Footwear: Plan to go barefoot or wear grip socks to maintain stability and hygiene.

  • Hydration: Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your workout.

At the Studio

  • Punctuality: Arrive 5–10 minutes early to get settled, handle paperwork, and speak with your instructor about any injuries or goals.

  • Focus on You: Remember the "eyes on your own paper" philosophy—every body is unique, and Pilates is not one-size-fits-all.

  • Mindful Movement: Be prepared for slow, deliberate movements that focus on breath control and core activation.

After Class

  • Physical Sensation: Expect a "gentle soreness" in muscles you may not have engaged before—this is a great sign of effective activation!.

  • Mental State: Take a moment to enjoy the sense of accomplishment and relaxation that often follows mindful movement.

Bettina Williford

Bettina came to Pilates on her 50th birthday because the pain in her back and hips were taking a toll on her movement. Even sitting was difficult!

She was amazed how much her pain subsided after the first few lessons. The mind-body awareness coupled with full body strengthening changed her entire body …. and life.

~

Bettina has completed over 500 hours of Traditional Pilates teacher training with renowned Pilates Teacher Hilary Opheim and is qualified for the National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP). She is always looking for ways to expand her learning.

She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a BS in Communications. She is an award winning novelist , editor, writing coach, and ghost writer.

https://www.bettpilates.com
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