Reformer Pilates has taken the fitness world by storm. Pilates princesses are emerging all across the world and swearing by this unique approach to strength, flexibility, and balance. If you have been toying with the idea of giving this workout a go, here are all the facts as my personal experience you need to know to help you decide if reformer pilates is right for you.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates is a dynamic workout that utilises a special machine called a Reformer, equipped with a sliding carriage, springs, and straps. It’s designed to enhance your strength, flexibility, and coordination through controlled, low-impact movements. Unlike mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates provides adjustable resistance to target various muscle groups, offering a more diverse range of exercises. Think of it as a blend of strength training and flexibility work with an emphasis on precision and alignment.

The Benefits of Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates has a lot to offer, which is why it is such a favourite for fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike. As a fitness girly myself I was quite impressed with the way it seamlessly combines strength and flexibility training. Some key benefits include:

• Improved Core Strength and Posture: I mean who doesn’t want a toned tummy and defined abs? Strengthening the core muscles also helps stabilise your spine, reducing strain on other parts of your body and contributes to overall movement efficiency and balance. By focusing on slow, controlled movements, reformer pilates really does challenge you to build core strength while enhancing overall balance.
• Increased Flexibility and Muscle Tone: The unique design of the Reformer allows for deep stretches that engage muscles through a full range of motion. Over time, this helps to lengthen and strengthen muscles, creating a lean and toned physique.
• Enhanced Mind-Body Connection: Reformer pilates is a slower workout with each movement in requiring focus and control. You must hone into the way your body is feeling and responding promoting mindfulness, reducing stress and creating a sense of mental clarity.
• Injury Prevention and Recovery: The low-impact nature of Reformer Pilates makes it ideal for individuals recovering from injuries or seeking to prevent future issues. It promotes proper movement patterns, building strength around the joints and muscles helping to protect and prevent future injuries.
• Customisation for All Fitness Levels: With adjustable resistance and modifications, Reformer Pilates can accommodate everyone from beginners to advanced practitioners, ensuring a workout tailored to individual needs. This means that no matter your skills, you will get a great workout every time.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Despite its benefits, Reformer Pilates isn’t without challenges. Whilst there are many benefits, I personally found that this workout wasn’t suited to my body type and structure.

• My Personal Experience: I am and have always been a person that carries a lot of tension in my neck. I am constantly having to see the physio and chiropractor to ease the muscles and realign my spine. Admittedly, poor posture probably contributes to this problem. I found that when doing Reformer Pilates my neck problems became much worse resulting in migraines and headaches. It was really difficult for me to (I also didn’t know if I was) maintaining the correct posture and engaging the right muscles in many of the exercises. For me, the exacerbation of my neck problems was not worth the benefits Reformer Pilates offered. I really want to highlight the importance of using correct form and seeking professional advice to make sure you are to avoid problems like this.

Some other factors to consider are:

• Steep Learning Curve: For those new to the Reformer, the combination of springs, straps, and precise movements can feel overwhelming at first. However, this initial challenge is surmountable with guidance and practice.
• Risk of Injury: Like I discussed above, without proper instruction, it’s easy to overextend or place undue strain on the neck, shoulders, or lower back. This can lead to pain or even long-term issues.
• Cost: Reformer Pilates classes tend to be more expensive than traditional gym memberships or mat Pilates due to the equipment and specialized instruction.
• Availability: Depending on where you live, finding a nearby studio or skilled instructor might require extra effort.

Importance of Correct Posture and Alignment

My experience highlights the importance of maintaining proper posture and alignment. Without it, you risk undermining the benefits of the workout and potentially causing harm. Whilst this workout wasn’t for me there are tips to ensure you get it right.

• Focus on Technique: Each movement on the Reformer should be deliberate, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. Taking your time to understand and execute each exercise properly pays dividends.
• Be Aware of Common Mistakes: Many beginners tend to tense their shoulders, overextend their necks, or arch their backs excessively. Recognising and correcting these habits is crucial.
• Listen to Your Body: Pain is a signal that something isn’t right. If you feel discomfort, pause and reassess your alignment or seek assistance. Don’t be afraid to ask for help- everyone has to start somewhere.

My Recommendations

• Who Benefits Most? Reformer Pilates is excellent for individuals looking for low-impact, total-body conditioning and those aiming to improve posture or recover from minor injuries. It’s also great for people seeking a mindful and balanced approach to fitness.
• Who Should Be Cautious? If you have chronic neck or back pain, consult a healthcare professional before starting. Certain conditions might require tailored modifications to avoid exacerbating existing issues.
• Beginner Tips:
  • Take an Introductory Class: Starting with a fundamentals class helps you learn the machine’s mechanics and essential exercises.
  • Prioritise Technique Over Intensity: Focus on mastering basic movements before advancing to more challenging routines.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that mastering Reformer Pilates takes time and consistency. Be patient and celebrate incremental progress.
  • Do your research: An instructor can make or break a Reformer Pilates class (and any fitness class for that matter). Whilst it may be tempting to just choose the cheapest gym it is important that the instructor is highly knowledgable, willing to provide feedback and correct technique. Their insights can make all the difference in achieving your fitness goals, reducing injury and ensuring you get the most out of your workout. I recommend choosing a gym that has a good reputation or been tried and tested by someone you know.
  • Private/ semi-private training sessions: Private sessions or small group classes can provide more personalised attention, helping you build a solid foundation. This is a good way to ensure you are using the correct posture and technique and don’t get overlooked in a larger group class.

Final Thoughts…

Reformer Pilates can definitely be a transformative workout when approached with the right mindset and technique. While it’s not without its challenges—such as potential injury from incorrect posture—if you’re willing to invest the time in learning proper form this can be a great multi-faceted workout and help you achieve your fitness goals. My personal experience taught me the value of careful execution and the importance of listening to my body. If you’re curious about Reformer Pilates, take it slow, seek guidance, and see how it aligns with your fitness goals.