This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
I do all of my Pilates workouts at home and over time I have found a rhythm that keeps me consistent motivated and actually excited to roll out my mat. As a single mom of four kids finding time for a workout can be really hard. Being able to exercise at home is a blessing and gives me the freedom to take care of myself while still tending to the needs of my children.
My go-to instructors are Move with Nicole who is incredibly beginner-friendly and calming and Pilates by Izzy who offers more advanced sessions that challenge me to push a little further. Being able to watch YouTube while my children are nearby takes away the anxiety or mom-guilt that sometimes keeps me from going to the gym. I know it’s not for everyone but for me this setup works perfectly and helps me feel more well-balanced.
Even though I am working out in my living room I keep all of my Pilates mat accessories and gear in a basket in the front room. It makes it easy to grab what I need stay organized and jump right into my session without having to set anything up.
1. My Pilates Mat
I use a 5mm Lululemon smooth mat that is technically designed for yoga but I absolutely love it for Pilates. It is soft supportive and has the perfect amount of cushioning for floor work. It also lays flat really well and does not bunch or slide around.
Since I work out on carpet the mat helps provide a stable surface and keeps me grounded during movements. Plus having a clean mat ready means my youngest can sit comfortably nearby and sometimes join in on stretches or gentle movements which makes working out together feel special. Find it here!
2. Resistance Bands
I use the CALIA Fabric Bands 3 Pack from Dicks Sporting Goods. They come in light medium and heavy resistance levels which is perfect for mixing up the intensity depending on the workout. I originally bought mine for $29.99 but they are currently on sale for $16.97.
These fabric bands stay in place better than latex ones and feel really supportive for leg glute and arm work. They also feature interior silicone ridges to keep them securely in place during exercises. Find it here!
3. Mini Stability Ball
I use the kisnbld Small Exercise Ball, 9 Inch Mini Pilates Ball. It is anti-burst and slip resistant making it ideal for stability fitness physical therapy stretching and core strength workouts at home or in the office. This small ball is great for inner thigh squeezes bridges and supported ab movements and it packs away easily when deflated.
My kids often find it irresistible too. The ball frequently becomes a toy for tossing around which adds some lighthearted fun during my workout sessions. It’s a reminder that making space for myself and my family can happen side by side. Find it here!
4. Pilates Ring
I use the ProBody Pilates Fitness Circle – 14 Inch Pilates Ring for focusing on toning inner thighs arms and core. This Pilates mat accessory helps build strength and stability in a focused way. It is light durable and easy to store which makes it a smart addition to any home routine. Find it here!
5. Grip Socks
I use Ozaiic Yoga Socks for Women which have non-slip grips and straps. They are ideal for Pilates Pure Barre Ballet Dance and barefoot workouts. Grip socks help prevent slipping on smooth floors and offer more stability during standing or plank exercises. I keep a clean pair ready in my basket so they are always easy to grab. Find it here!
6. Light Dumbbells (3lb and 4lb)
I rotate between 3-pound dumbbells and a set of 4-pound PAPABABE hex dumbbells. The PAPABABE dumbbells are perfect for strength training at home and provide just the right amount of challenge without being too heavy. These dumbbells help tone my arms shoulders and core while fitting easily into my home workout space.
My oldest son has started using my 3-pound weights to get in some strength training himself. It’s fun having him nearby and knowing we are both working toward our fitness goals. Find it here!
7. Cork Yoga Block
I use the CALIA Cork Yoga Block from Dicks Sporting Goods. This sturdy block is useful for support alignment and modifying positions. Whether I need to elevate my hips assist in stretches or provide extra height for my hands it is one of those tools that quietly makes a big impact. Find it here!
8. Ankle Weights
When I want to increase the intensity of a workout I will add ankle weights. I use a lightweight adjustable set from Amazon designed for both wrist and ankle use. They are especially effective during lower-body movements and glute work adding a bit more resistance without interrupting the flow. Some people also use them as wrist weights for arm-focused exercises though I personally only use them on my ankles. Find it here!
9. Core Sliding Discs
To add an extra challenge to my Pilates workouts I use Gaiam Core Sliding Discs. These dual-sided workout sliders work well on carpet and hardwood floors. They are great for engaging the core and increasing strength and stability through dynamic movements. They are compact and easy to store in my Pilates basket. Find it here!
10. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key during any workout. I use the Stanley IceFlow 2.0 Flip Straw Tumbler with Handle 40 oz. It has a twist-on lid and a flip-up straw. This leak-resistant insulated stainless steel bottle is BPA-free and comes in Rose Quartz. It keeps my water cold throughout my Pilates sessions and is easy to carry around with the handle. Find it here!
Final Thoughts
Even when you are working out at home having a few key Pilates mat accessories can make your practice feel more structured and enjoyable. My setup helps me transition from daily life into workout mode without needing a studio or fancy equipment.
Being able to watch YouTube classes while my kids are nearby has made a huge difference in managing mom guilt and anxiety around carving out time for myself. It is not a perfect system but for me it works well and helps me feel more balanced.
If you are new to Pilates I highly recommend checking out Move with Nicole for gentle beginner-friendly classes or Pilates by Izzy if you are ready to try more advanced workouts. Both have helped me build strength stay consistent and enjoy the process.
What is in your home Pilates setup? I would love to hear what Pilates mat accessories or routines work for you. Leave a comment or tag me on social to share your space.
Making space for yourself and for your family side by side… LOVE THIS!!! So beautifully put! 🩷