If you’re wondering about Reformer Pilates and how it fits into the world of fitness, you’re not alone! This unique style of Pilates has become a favourite for anyone looking to build strength, improve flexibility, and increase core stability - all with a low-impact approach that’s gentle on the body. It’s a versatile workout that’s as suitable for beginners as it is for seasoned fitness enthusiasts. Here at Revive Wellness Club, Reformer Pilates has become one of our most popular classes, so let’s dive into what makes it special and why you might want to give it a go.
Meet the Reformer: Your Pilates Powerhouse
The Reformer is the star of Reformer Pilates, and while it might look a bit intimidating at first, it’s designed to support you in ways that are both challenging and incredibly rewarding. This machine allows you to perform a wide range of movements that target different muscle groups, providing a fully customisable workout experience. Once you’re comfortable with how each part works, you’ll see just how versatile and approachable it is. Here’s a breakdown of the key parts of the Reformer and how each one enhances your workout:
Carriage: The flat platform that moves back and forth along the Reformer frame. You’ll sit, kneel, lie down, or stand on it, depending on the exercise. The carriage’s movement helps you work on balance, stability, and core engagement.
Springs: These adjustable springs provide varying levels of resistance to the carriage. You can change the intensity of each exercise by adding or removing springs, making it perfect for tailoring your workout to your strength level.
Footbar: Positioned at one end of the Reformer, the footbar is used as a base for your feet or hands in certain exercises. It helps with balance, alignment, and provides a stable point for pushing off during movements.
Shoulder Blocks: These blocks keep your shoulders stable and aligned when lying on the Reformer. They help guide your posture and prevent sliding, especially during exercises that engage the core and upper body.
Straps and Loops: Attached to the carriage, these straps can be used with your hands or feet. The straps allow for a full range of motion, helping you work your muscles in all directions and develop flexibility and control.
What makes the Reformer so effective is its ability to blend resistance, control, and flexibility into one workout. As Good Housekeeping highlights, “The springs provide resistance, while the straps give your body freedom of movement, which makes it easier to stretch and work muscles you didn’t even know existed.” It’s truly a powerhouse machine that allows you to customise each session for a well-rounded, balanced workout.
The Benefits of Reformer Pilates
People often fall in love with Reformer Pilates because of how it makes them feel. Here are a few standout benefits:
Strengthen Your Core and Stabilise Your Spine
Every movement on the reformer requires core engagement, which means you’re constantly building strength in your abs, back, and stabilising muscles. This translates to better posture, balance, and stability for everything you do outside the studio.
Achieve Next-Level Flexibility
The reformer supports deeper, more controlled stretches than you might achieve on a mat alone, helping you to increase flexibility gradually. Regular sessions can help you achieve a wider range of motion, which is perfect for anyone who feels a bit stiff from work or daily life.
Tone and Define Your Muscles
One of the best parts of Reformer Pilates is how it helps you achieve a lean, toned and sculpted look. The resistance from the springs means your muscles are constantly working, so you should see toning results quickly, especially in your legs, core, and arms.
Reduce Strain on Your Joints
Unlike some higher-impact workouts, Reformer Pilates is gentle on the joints. This is ideal for people of all ages, especially if you’re looking for a fitness routine that strengthens without putting unnecessary strain on your body.
Perfect for Injury Recovery and Prevention
Reformer Pilates is widely used in physical therapy for its gentle, rehabilitative benefits. The reformer allows you to target specific muscle groups safely and with control, making it an excellent choice if you’re recovering from an injury or simply want to build strength to prevent future injuries.
Mental Focus and Stress Relief
Since Pilates incorporates breathing and mindfulness, many find it a fantastic way to reduce stress and improve focus. The slower, controlled pace can be meditative, which leaves you feeling centred and relaxed.
Who is Reformer Pilates For?
The short answer? Just about everyone! Reformer Pilates is particularly great if you want to:
Increase Core Stability: For those looking to boost their core strength, Reformer Pilates is hard to beat.
Recover from an Injury: If you’re rehabbing an injury or want to prevent future ones, the reformer’s guided movements help you move safely and gently.
Add Strength Training Without Weights: If you’re looking for strength-building but prefer to avoid heavy weights, the reformer is a brilliant alternative that uses resistance in a controlled way.
Keep Things Low-Impact: If high-impact workouts aren’t your thing, Reformer Pilates offers a challenging workout that’s easier on the body.
What to Expect in a Reformer Pilates Class at Revive Wellness Club
Walking into a Reformer Pilates class can feel like a bit of a mystery at first—what does this machine do, and how do you even start? Don’t worry; we’ve got you! At Revive, our Reformer Pilates classes are kept small and personalised with a maximum of 6 participants, so you get plenty of support and attention from our instructors.
Here’s what a typical session looks like:
Getting Comfortable with the Equipment: We’ll guide you through the basics, from adjusting the springs to positioning yourself on the carriage.
Personalised, Guided Movement: Our instructors lead you through each movement to ensure you’re engaging the right muscles and maintaining safe form.
Building Strength and Flexibility Gradually: We focus on gradual progress so you’re always moving at a pace that feels right for your body.
Tips for Your First Reformer Pilates Class
If it’s your first time, here are some tips to help you feel confident and ready to go:
Wear Comfortable, Fitted Clothes:
Opt for form-fitting attire that lets you move freely without extra fabric getting caught.
Arrive Early for a Quick Intro to the Reformer:
This gives you a chance to ask questions and get comfortable with the machine before the class begins.
Ask Questions and Enjoy the Process:
Remember, everyone’s learning curve is different! Feel free to ask for adjustments or clarifications.
Embrace the Mind-Body Connection:
Reformer Pilates is all about control and focus. Try to tune into your breath and the rhythm of each movement—it’s great for both body and mind.
Related blog – Is Reformer Pilates Good For Beginners?
Why Choose Revive for Reformer Pilates?
At Revive, we believe fitness should be accessible, enjoyable, and tailored to fit your goals. Our Reformer Pilates classes offer an inviting, community feel where you can get personalised guidance from experienced instructors. Whether you’re here to build strength, increase the challenge pilates brings you, maximise results, recover from an injury, or simply try something new, we’re here to make your journey rewarding.
We offer flexible class schedules, a welcoming space, and a friendly team to help you every step of the way. If you’re curious but still on the fence, don’t hesitate to reach out or pop in to see what we’re all about.
A message from our Founder, Georgia…
“For years now I’ve struggled with a bad back—no matter what I’ve tried, it’s been a constant challenge. Every time I pushed myself in strength training, my back would ‘go,’ and I’d end up back at square one. It’s so frustrating, and over my almost 20 years as a physio, I’ve treated so many people in the same position. You want to make progress, but it’s like your body holds you back. That’s actually how I came across Reformer Pilates.
For me, the Reformer has been a total game-changer. It’s the only form of exercise I’ve tried where I feel like I can push myself and build strength without worrying about hurting my back. The support the Reformer gives you is just something else—you feel safe, but you’re still able to challenge your body. In the past, I’d always recommend things like yoga or Pilates to my patients, but even those can be really tough for people with limited mobility or back pain. With the Reformer, you’re not so restricted. You can work on building strength without that constant fear of overdoing it or getting injured again.
When I started, I’ll be honest, it wasn’t easy. It’s a whole new way of moving, and it works muscles you didn’t even know existed! But what amazed me was that it didn’t aggravate my back. That was huge for me—it’s the first time I’ve found something that strengthens my core and supports my spine without causing more problems. On top of that, it’s improved my flexibility, range of motion, and overall strength, which has made such a difference in my daily life.
One of the things I love most about Reformer Pilates, though, is the mindful side of it. You’re so focused on your breath, connecting to your body, and engaging your pelvic floor—it’s almost meditative. I leave every class feeling like I’ve had a full-body workout, but I’m refreshed and clear-headed instead of burnt out. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my HIIT classes and Bootcamps for that adrenaline rush, but Reformer has become the foundation of my training routine. It gives me the best of both worlds: I can push myself physically while also looking after my mind and my body.”
FAQs About Reformer Pilates
Is Reformer Pilates beginner-friendly?
Yes! The beauty of Reformer Pilates is that it can be adapted to any fitness level. Our instructors will guide you through each movement to match your comfort level. We have a blog on this subject which you can read here – Is Reformer Pilates Good For Beginners?
How often should I practise Reformer Pilates?
For most people, one to two sessions a week is ideal. However, if you really enjoy it, you can increase your frequency to fit your goals.
What’s the difference between Reformer and Mat Pilates?
While both focus on building strength and flexibility, Reformer Pilates uses the reformer machine, which adds resistance and range of motion. Check out our full guide on Mat vs. Reformer Pilates here!
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of Reformer Pilates, book a class with us at our beautiful Pilates Studio in Allesley Village! We have an exclusive offer on for all first timers which you can find directly through our app or on our membership page. Whether it’s your first time or you’re looking to expand your Pilates routine, we’re excited to welcome you.
