1. What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of Pilates performed using a specialized machine—a reformer—with a sliding carriage, springs, straps, pulleys, and a footbar. It delivers resistance and support to enhance strength, posture, flexibility, and core control for a full-body, low-impact workout.
2. Is Reformer Pilates suitable for beginners or all fitness levels?
Yes. The reformer can be adjusted to suit beginners through to athletes. Springs can be modified for resistance, and instructors can tailor exercises based on individual needs and experience. Also remember, it’s a small class so you never have to be afraid to ask for help!
3. What benefits does Reformer Pilates offer compared to Mat Pilates?
While both improve core strength and control, Reformer Pilates adds adjustable resistance, better support for alignment, and a broader range of movements. It’s excellent for muscle toning, alignment, rehabilitation, and increasing overall fitness.
4. Can Reformer Pilates help with injury prevention or rehabilitation?
Absolutely—it’s often used therapeutically. Thanks to its low-impact nature and adjustable resistance, it supports safe movement. Many studios incorporate it into physiotherapy for back pain, posture correction, and controlled rehabilitation.
5. What should I wear and bring to a class?
Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes for ease of movement and to help your instructor spot alignment. Grip socks are highly recommended for traction and safety, but normal socks are fine if you don’t have grip socks. Bring water and arrive 5- 10 mins early to get familiar with the equipment.
6. How often should I attend to see results?
For noticeable improvements in strength, flexibility, and control, aim for 2–3 sessions per week. A lot of people build up to daily as long as the weekly classes are varied appropriately – which of course, being a physiotherapy based clinic… ours are!
7. What can I expect in my first Reformer session?
Expect guidance on setup and spring settings, an introduction to basic movements (like footwork and pelvic lifts), and assistance in getting comfortable on the reformer. We will also send you a video of how a Reformer works, so this way you have a head start before your first class. Instructors will ensure your form, alignment, and posture are safe from the start.
8. Are the classes safe, and how big are they?
Reformer Pilates is safe—particularly with qualified instructors and small class sizes. Crowded or poorly supervised sessions do increase risk, so studio policies that prioritize low instructor-to-client ratios (like up to 6 or 7 per class) are ideal. Hence, why we have prioritised smaller class sizes.
