Online pilates class recommendations for v unfit and overweight me pls

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I really need to build my core strength, but cannot face the idea of joining an in person class. Do any of you have recommendations of where I can start without immediately giving up because it is impossible for me please?

The Girl with the Pilates Mat on YT. Very gentle.

Pilates is great (been doing it for 10 years) and there are some excellent online teachers, but you need to be taught the basics in person IMO. The whole point of pilates is based on very small movements that make a big difference. If you do them wrong you definitely won't get the benefit and you might injure yourself. But on the other hand, please do not go to one of those large classes at your local gym - you won't be properly taught there either.

My advice is to look for a studio that does a small (max 8) beginner course or, if you can afford it, a couple of private lessons. Which part of the country are you as I'd definitely recommend where I go as beginner friendly.

It's probably a good idea to have some one to one Pilates lessons to make sure you've nailed the fundamentals.

I've got a lovely instructor, she started doing zoom in lockdown and still does a class that way ... that's quite a good idea if you're shy (or lazy like me... I love the class but it's nice not to have to drive to it!)

Don't start with recorded YouTube type classes. They can be great once you know what you're doing, but Pilates is all about precision - having your leg just a couple of cm out of position can make the difference between exercising a specific muscle and just waving about uselessly.

You really need a live instructor to start with, until you know how things are meant to feel. Ideally in person, but at least a live Zoom class (usually you can't really see or be seen by the other people in these, only the instructor) rather than a recorded one.

And for the same reason I strongly recommend beginning with at least 1 individual session if you can possibly afford it.

https://neilpilates.com/ does Zoom training if you're not local. Neil is very reasonably priced and extremely good. I've been doing classes with him for 10 years.

I love love love Kait Coats on YT. She's big on body positivity and her classes range from total beginner to fairly advanced. I'd try something like that and see how you get on, but you may need one or two in person sessions to make sure your form is right else you won't get the full benefit and could hurt yourself.

My physio recommends this www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio/pilates-and-yoga/pilates-for-beginners/

I would really advise starting with a class and learning the basics before doing anything on your own/online so you can get into the habit of using the right posture and breathing for each exercise.

I joined a local pilates studio and they ask that everyone does a 3 session introduction to pilates group workshop to learn the basics before you are even allowed to join the beginner classes.

I have been doing pilates for almost two years and I am now at intermediate level. The tutor's advice and correction of my posture and so on has really been invaluable and it helped slowly develop my strength and flexibility.

It also has really helped me manage chronic pain issues due to a long term health condition. It was important for me to know that I am doing the moves right under the supervision of a class tutor and therefore unlikely to hurt myself.

In our studio classes are quite small and very relaxed/supportive and if you choose a beginner class you will be with other people who are also learning so no need to feel self-conscious.

Thanks everyone - that sounds like pretty consistent advice to find a small class or personal teacher.

It really is a good idea, and I think moreso if you're unfit initially. A good instructor will adapt exercises for individual capabilities, weaknesses etc. But fit people may have injuries, and some are less flexible so the advice holds for all.