Getting started with reformer Pilates
Everything to know before your first session: how to choose, what to bring and what happens on the day.
Your first visit, step by step
Five short steps. No experience needed.
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Choose your class
Foundations is designed for first-timers. If you’d prefer more personal guidance, start with a One-to-One.
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Book online
Pick a time that suits you and reserve your place. Class times and availability are shown when you book.
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Prepare
Wear comfortable, close-fitting clothes you can move in, and bring a bottle of water.
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On the day
Give yourself time to settle in. Let your instructor know it’s your first class, and mention any injuries or health conditions before you begin.
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After class
Notice how you feel over the next day or two. When the basics feel familiar, you can move on to Reformer Practice.
What to bring and what to mention
A few small things that help your first class go smoothly.
Bring
- Comfortable clothes you can move freely in
- A bottle of water
- Anything the studio asks for when you book
Tell your instructor
- That it’s your first reformer class
- About any injuries, recent surgery or pregnancy
- If a movement feels uncomfortable during class
Words you’ll hear in class
Instructors use a few terms again and again. Here’s what they mean.
- Carriage
- The padded platform that slides back and forth as you move.
- Springs
- Set beneath the carriage to add support or resistance, depending on the exercise.
- Neutral spine
- Your back’s natural curves, neither flattened into the mat nor strongly arched.
- Tabletop
- Lying on your back with hips and knees bent at about ninety degrees, shins parallel to the floor.
- Imprint
- Gently drawing your lower back closer to the mat for extra support.
- Lateral breathing
- Breathing wide into the sides and back of your ribs while your abdominals stay gently engaged.
Before your first class
Can’t find your answer? Get in touch.
Do I need any Pilates experience?
No. Foundations classes are made for people who are new to the reformer. You’ll be guided through the setup and each movement.
How do I choose a class?
If you’re new, start with Foundations. When the equipment and basic movements feel familiar, try Reformer Practice. One-to-One suits anyone who would like more personal attention.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable, close-fitting clothes you can move freely in, and a bottle of water. Anything else you need will be shared when you book.
Is reformer Pilates hard?
It can be as gentle or as challenging as you need. Springs and options change the effort, so a first class focuses on learning the movements rather than pushing hard.
I have an injury or health condition. Can I join?
Check with your GP or physiotherapist first if you’re unsure, and always tell your instructor before class so they can suggest options.
How do I book?
Choose a class and a time, then reserve your place online. In this concept demo, the booking button explains how that would work instead of taking a booking.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation terms are shown when you book, so you can check them before reserving your place.
Ready for your first class?
Pick a class that suits you, then see how booking would work.