Reformer Pilates is a powerful low impact workout that builds strength, flexibility, and body awareness using a specialised machine called the reformer. If you’re new to this kind of exercise, proper Reformer Pilates preparation can make a huge difference in how confident, safe, and effective your first class feels.
Whether you’re attending your very first session or returning after a break, this guide will walks you through everything you should prepare before a Reformer Pilates class. From an essential equipment to mindset and body readiness.
12 Reformer Pilates Preparation
1. Understand What Reformer Pilates Is
Reformer Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates and uses machine with a spring based to create resistance and support. Unlike mat Pilates, the reformer pilates:
- Uses controlled resistance instead of gravity
- Emphasises alignment and precision
- Supports joints while strengthening muscles
Knowing this will helps you to set realistic expectations, this is not about speed, but control and quality of movement.
2. Wear Fitted, Comfortable Clothing
Choose sports clothing that allows your instructor to see your alignment clearly:
- Fitted tops (avoid overly loose shirts)
- Leggings or stretch pants
- Breathable, sweat wicking material
Avoid zippers or bulky pockets, because you’ll be lying and moving on the reformer carriage and it could hurt you.
3. Bring or Wear Grip Socks
Grip socks are essential for the Reformer Pilates classes. It helps you to:
- Prevent slipping on the reformer machine
- Improve stability and safety
- Enhance control during footwork
Many studios could lend you their grip socks, but bringing your own is always a safer idea.
4. Arrive Early (Especially for Your First Class)
Arriving around 10 to 15 minutes early will give you time to:
- Get familiar with the machine
- Inform the instructor about your current conditions or injuries
- Adjust springs and settings safely
This is a key part to having a safe Reformer Pilates preparation for beginners.
5. Eat Lightly Before Class
Avoid consuming a heavy meals around 1 or 2 hours before class. Instead you could:
- Have a light snack (banana, yogurt, toast)
- Stay hydrated, but don’t overdrink right before the class
A light stomach helps you move comfortably, especially during core focused exercises and stretched in machine.
6. Have Beginner Friendly Mindset
Reformer Pilates looks elegant, but it’s quite challenging. So, before class:
- Let go the mindset of perfection
- Focus on learning, not performance
- Remember that shaking muscles after exercise are normal
Mind clarity is as important as physical preparation. Pilates is about awareness, not ego.
7. Communicate Any Injuries or Conditions
Always inform your instructor about your current conditions if you have:
- Back, neck, or knee issues
- Previous injuries or surgeries
- Pregnancy or postnatal considerations
One of the strengths of Reformer Pilates is the adaptability. But, all of it only if your instructor knows what to modify.
8. Learn Basic Pilates Breathing
Pilates uses lateral breathing method, where your ribcage will expands while the body core stays engaged.
You don’t need to master it beforehand, but being aware of it will helps you:
- Activate your core more effectively
- Move with control
- Avoid holding your breath
9. Be Ready to Move Slowly and Precisely
Unlike high intensity workouts, Reformer Pilates mostly prioritises in this things:
- Slow and controlled movements
- Precise alignment
- Smooth transitions
Practitioners should be mentally prepared to move with intention rather than speed.
10. Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others
In a Reformer Pilates class, everyone could do this:
- Uses different spring resistance
- Works at different levels
- Has different physical backgrounds
Your reformer settings are personalised, there’s no need to do comparison as it has no value here.
11. Stay Open to Hands On Guidance
Instructors may give you some advices and guide like this:
- Offer verbal cues
- Adjust spring resistance
- Provide hands on corrections
These adjustments help improve safety and effectiveness to embrace them is a part of learning.
12. Plan for Post Class Recovery
This is what you need to do or have after class:
- Stretch gently
- Drink water
- Expect mild soreness (especially in core and legs)
Consistent practice, not to overtraining it, is the key to progress in Reformer Pilates.
Why Proper Reformer Pilates Preparation Matters
Preparing before class well helps you:
- Reduce injury risk
- Learn faster
- Enjoy the class more
- Build long term consistency
Reformer Pilates is a journey and the right preparation will sets you up for success from day one.
Feel the Change with Sky Yoga Reformer Pilates
If you want proper guidance, personalised adjustments, and a safe learning environment, we have all of that to make your exercise different.
At our Balestier Studio, the Reformer Pilates classes are led by experienced instructors who support beginners step by step. This is for ensuring correct alignment, mindful movement, and steady progress.
Enjoy New Year Flash Deal for Reformer Pilates classes. Enjoy up to $15 off from our class card.
Join Sky Yoga International and experience the confidence that comes with guided movement.