What is Reformer Pilates?
Find out more about Reformer Pilates
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise which focuses on core strength, flexibility, posture, and balance.
It uses a specific piece of equipment - a reformer machine - that has springs, straps, and a sliding carriage to add resistance and support movements.
Whether you’re looking to work on your strength, improve mobility, recover from an injury, or simply enjoy a full-body workout, reformer Pilates offers something for everyone.
You’ve probably noticed that reformer Pilates has become quite a popular type of exercise, so discover all you need to know about it in this blog.
What is a Reformer Pilates class?
Our Reformer Pilates classes last 60 minutes and feature a range of different exercises that work your whole body. Some will use the reformer machine (like a seated twist), and some will be done off it using your bodyweight (such as a squat).
The reformer machine might look complex at first, but each part has an important role. Every part of the machine has a purpose, and your instructor will guide you through it. The adjustable springs provide resistance to help build strength, while also supporting your movements and making some exercises feel more accessible compared to using body weight. There’s also a carriage that moves back and forth, shoulder blocks to help keep your body supported, and straps you can use with your hands or feet.
Our expert instructors teach Reformer Pilates in small groups, giving you the best of both worlds: personalised guidance and a supportive group environment. You'll get hands-on coaching and form corrections along the way, all at a more affordable cost than a private session.
If you'd like to make Reformer Pilates part of your regular routine, our Premium+ Reformer membership* includes classes alongside gym access, swimming at selected centres, and group workout classes too.
Reformer Classes
Reformer Foundations
This is a great class to start if you’re new to Reformer Pilates, want a low-impact strength training option, or you’re recovering from an injury. Expect to learn the fundamentals of Reformer Pilates, work on your technique, and build confidence with the machine.
Reformer Strength
The next level is our Reformer Strength class, where you’ll build on what’s been learned in Reformer Foundations. In this class, you’ll gradually turn up the intensity and learn a greater variety of movements to help you progress.
Reformer Power
This class is our most advanced offering. Designed for experienced Reformer Pilates lovers, Reformer Power offers a healthy challenge, complete with a higher pace, greater intensity, and more complex sequences.
Benefits of a Reformer Pilates class
As with most types of low-impact, resistance workouts, you can expect many physical and mental benefits from our Reformer Pilates classes:
- Builds full-body strength: Targets multiple muscle groups (including your core), while using the adjustable resistance springs to suit your fitness level.
- Boosts flexibility and mobility: Safe stretching, mindful movement, and joint support are some of the things we love most about a Reformer Pilates class.
- Improves balance: The straps and moving carriage on the reformer machine can give your stability a healthy challenge.
- Supports recovery and injury prevention: Many exercises on and off the reformer machine can be adapted, making Reformer Pilates a joint-friendly, accessible workout option.
- Aids mind-body connection: By synchronising your breath with movement, Reformer Pilates can boost concentration, coordination, and spatial awareness (proprioception).
What is the difference between Pilates and Reformer Pilates?
Traditional Pilates is most often performed on a yoga mat, relying on your body weight or some equipment (like dumbbells) to perform each exercise.
Reformer Pilates applies similar principles from traditional Pilates to the reformer machine. With the machine’s features, it adds a versatile range of movements, greater support, and adjustable resistance to the workout.
Whichever option of Pilates you go for, practicing regularly can lead to improved strength, balance, mobility, and mind-body connection. Some of our centres also offer traditional mat-based Pilates classes to
Frequently asked questions
Is Reformer Pilates beginner-friendly?
The simple answer: yes. The reformer machine makes it easy to tailor resistance levels to suit what you need as a beginner, while many exercises in a Reformer Pilates class can be modified for your ability.
We know that a reformer machine can make Pilates look much harder, but that’s far from the truth! The machine is there to assist your movement, making certain exercises feel easier and more supportive.
With small class sizes and expert instructors, you'll never feel lost in the crowd. We make sure every participant gets the support, encouragement, and form corrections they need.
If you’re new to Reformer Pilates, we’d recommend joining our Reformer Foundations class to help you learn more about technique, breathing, and basic movements. Our experienced instructors provide expert guidance in each class, supporting your technique and answering any questions you may have.
How can I prepare for a Reformer Pilates class?
Feeling prepped for your Reformer Pilates class can help you feel more confident, relaxed, and ready to get the most out of it. Here’s how we recommend preparing:
- Arrive early: Getting to the class five to ten minutes before it starts gives you time to settle into the class and even have a quick introduction to the machine with your instructor.
- Use grip socks: Grip socks have rubber or silicone patterns on the sole, helping to prevent sliding on reformer machines or studio floors.
- Wear fitted clothing: Loose workout clothing may catch on the springs, so it’s best to wear fitted clothing that you feel comfortable in for your class.
- Bring water: As with any workout, it’s important to stay hydrated before, during, and after your session. Many of our centres have water fountains or cafés where you’re able to get water.
You can find your nearest Places Leisure centre here, using your postcode or a specific location. The full list of memberships and timetables available at each centre are on the centre homepage.
If Reformer Pilates has launched at your centre, you can book a class via our website or on our Places Leisure app.
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