The Pilates reformer is a traditional piece of Pilates equipment. Its unique system, which looks like a bed with springs and incorporates a sliding carriage, ropes and pulleys.

The origins of the Pilates reformer date back to the original Pilates studio in New York in the 1920’s and was designed by Joseph Pilates himself. used to help dancers get stronger, he called it the Universal Reformer and it was part of the apparatus system he used in his studio.

The Reformer’s many attachments increase the range of application and modification that can be made to the exercises and allow additional exercises beyond what can be done on a mat.

As such you can enjoy a far greater repertoire of exercises, as Reformer Pilates works more areas than mat work, especially as mat work is mostly core whereas reformer works the entire body, as well as the more peripheral muscles of the arms and legs.

In addition, the use of a Reformer allows people with limited range of movement or injuries to safely do modified exercises.

Whilst the Pilates Reformer might resemble a medieval torture device, don’t let that sway you from giving it a go! It is a low-impact workout that can result in significant gains in long, lean muscles as well as strength, endurance and flexibility.

It’s actually an accessible way to build strength in your core muscles for better posture, balance and flexibility.

Our classes are ideal if you’re new to Pilates and haven’t exercised in a while. Whilst a basic level of fitness is helpful, it is not essential. Our classes can be set up to suit the specific needs of a wide group of people: from beginners to more advanced Pilates devotees.

Similar to Yoga, Pilates concentrates on posture, balance and flexibility. In Pilates the chance of injury is much lower than with other more strenuous forms of exercise.

The Reformer gives you all the benefits of Mat Pilates and more. Rest assured you will feel great after a Pilates Reformer class – it is definitely NOT a “no pain no gain” kind of class.

For reformer Pilates, freedom of movement is really important. As you want to be able to exercise comfortably and without any restrictions, you don’t want to wear anything too loose or too tight. So opt for something you can move freely in, like leggings or close-fitting shorts and a stretchy top or t-shirt.

Full toe-covering socks are required for any reformer equipment class, these are to avoid your feet slipping while on the reformer.

However, don’t worry as the Pilates Reformer Studio can provide non-slip quality socks can be purchased at the studio for only £12.

Each class at the Pilates Reformer Studio will build your core muscles as well as focus on your breathing, flexibility and strength.

In your first Reformer Pilates class we will take you through the foundations of the reformer bed, how it works, how to change the different spring options and the many positions you can take when using the bed.

Each person in the class will be working on a separate Reformer – there are five reformers in the studio, so the classes are quite small.

This also means you won’t be left to figure out anything on your own, and we’ll make sure each you are working with the right level of resistance, always ensuring you keep yourself safe and free from injury.

Many of the exercises performed on the reformer are like those in a mat class, so if you have experienced a mat class before you have the benefit of a little preview of some of the moves.

 It is advised to not to start any new activity you wasn’t consistently doing before your pregnancy. If you have been consistently doing Reformer Pilates, then you are absolutely fine to continue.  

As a beginner, you are welcome to attend any class at your convenience. We kindly request that you arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the class commences so the instructor can familiarize you with the equipment and provide an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have. Additionally, the instructor will be available to offer alternatives to the exercises when necessary.