A beginner’s Pilates routine is designed to introduce you to the foundational principles and exercises of Pilates, emphasizing core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. This routine can be performed on a mat, making it accessible for beginners. Aim for a 20-30 minute session, and practice this routine 3-4 times a week for optimal results.

**1. Breath Awareness (2 minutes)

• Start by lying on your back with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and arms by your sides.
• Take a moment to focus on your breath, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Emphasize the expansion of your ribcage with each inhale and the release of tension with each exhale.

**2. Pelvic Tilt (3 minutes)

• Begin with the same starting position.
• On an exhale, engage your core muscles, press your lower back into the mat, and tilt your pelvis up.
• On an inhale, release the tilt, allowing your lower back to return to the mat.
• Repeat this movement for several breaths, focusing on your core engagement.

**3. The Hundred (5 minutes)

• Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet lifted off the ground, and arms reaching forward.
• Inhale for a count of 5 as you pump your arms up and down, then exhale for a count of 5.
• Continue this pattern, aiming to complete ten full breath cycles.

**4. Single Leg Stretch (5 minutes)

• Lie on your back, bring your right knee into your chest while extending your left leg straight.
• Switch legs while keeping your head and shoulders lifted.
• Perform this movement with controlled breath, switching legs on each exhale.

**5. Double Leg Stretch (5 minutes)

• Lie on your back, bring both knees into your chest and your head and shoulders off the mat.
• Extend your arms alongside your ears as you inhale, then circle them around and bring your knees back in as you exhale.

**6. Bridging (4 minutes)

• Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart.
• On an exhale, engage your core and lift your hips and spine off the mat.
• Inhale to hold the bridge position for a moment, and then exhale to lower back down.

**7. Child’s Pose (3 minutes)

• Transition to a kneeling position, sit back on your heels, and stretch your arms forward while lowering your forehead to the mat.

**8. Cool Down and Relaxation (3 minutes)

• Finish the routine with some gentle stretches and deep breathing.
• Relax on your back in a supine position with your arms by your sides.

This beginner’s Pilates routine introduces you to the fundamental exercises that build core strength and improve body awareness. Take your time with each exercise, focusing on proper alignment and controlled movements. As you become more proficient, you can gradually progress to more advanced Pilates routines.