What to Expect in Your First Reformer Pilates Class
If you're booking your first reformer Pilates class, a reasonable question is whether you'll be the only person in the room who doesn't know what to do.
You don't need to know anything beforehand. At Balanced in Vincentia, your instructor shows you where to position yourself, how many springs to use and what you should be feeling.
Do you need to be fit, flexible or experienced?
No. You don't need to touch your toes, hold a plank or know what a footbar is.
Your instructor adjusts the springs for each exercise, so the same movement can be made easier or harder depending on you. You start where you are, and the settings change as your strength and control develop.
What is a reformer, exactly?
A reformer is a piece of Pilates equipment with a sliding platform, called the carriage, that moves back and forth along a frame against a set of springs. The springs add resistance, so your muscles work as you push the carriage out and control it back in.
The footbar sits at one end, where you push with your feet or hands. The straps attach to ropes and are used for arm and leg exercises.
What happens in a 50-minute reformer class?
Classes have a maximum of 10 people and are led by an instructor. A typical class follows this order:
Warm-up: footwork on the reformer to get your body moving
Main block: exercises for your legs, trunk, arms and back, working lying down, sitting, kneeling and standing
Cool-down: stretching on or beside the reformer
The exercises change from class to class. The principles stay the same: controlled movement, good alignment and steady breathing. If something doesn't feel right, tell your instructor and they'll offer a modification.
Which class should you book first?
Align is our foundational class, built around technique, control and learning to move well before adding load. Flow classes are the next step, with progressive challenge and more dynamic movement.
If you'd like to learn the equipment with other beginners first, our 4-week Beginner Reformer Course is designed for that. It runs in set blocks, so check the course page for the next intake.
Not sure whether reformer or mat suits you better? We've compared the two in Reformer vs Mat Pilates.
What should you wear and bring?
Fitted, comfortable clothing you can move in. Leggings and a fitted top work well, and loose clothing can catch on the equipment.
Grip socks, so your feet don't slip on the footbar and carriage.
A water bottle.
Will you be sore the next day?
You might be. Reformer works your muscles through their full range, so some soreness the next day is common, particularly if you haven't done much strength work lately. It usually settles within a few days.
How do we support beginners?
Every class is instructor-led, and with a maximum of 10 people your instructor can check your set-up and answer questions as you go. Our instructors have ongoing training in human movement and women's health. We teach you how to move well so you can take that into the rest of your life.
What does it cost, and can you try it first?
Our intro offer is 4 classes for $89, to use over 14 days, for new clients. You can choose mat, reformer or a mix, so you can try a few classes and see what suits you. Book the offer, then choose your classes from the timetable.
What if you're managing an injury or pain?
A physio assessment is the best place to start. We can work out what your body needs and which class suits you.
Where are we?
Balanced Physiotherapy & Pilates is at Shop 3 & 4, Burton Street, Vincentia. We welcome women from across Jervis Bay, including Huskisson, Sanctuary Point, St Georges Basin and Nowra.
Try 4 classes for $89. Grab the intro offer or see the timetable.
Something specific going on? Book a physio assessment.