What Actually Happens in Your First Reformer Pilates Class

You’ve booked the class. You’ve Googled “what is that sliding machine thing?” You’ve panicked over grippy socks. Now you’re wondering what the heck you’ve signed up for.

Deep breath - you’re going to love this.

At Rise Pilates Studio in Keyworth, your first reformer Pilates class isn’t a boot camp or a performance test. It’s a chance to connect with your body, learn the ropes, and maybe surprise yourself with how strong you already are (yes, you).

Here’s what to expect - no jargon, no judgement, just real talk.

🚪 You’ll Arrive Early (because we love a calm queen)

For your first class, we recommend arriving 10–15 minutes early. We’ll show you around the studio, introduce you to the reformer, and answer any questions (yes, even the “what are springs?” kind).

Expect smiles, music, and maybe the smell of eucalyptus in the air. You're in good hands.

🛏️ You’ll Meet the Reformer

It might look like something from a medieval gym… but it’s actually a total game-changer.

The reformer is a bed-like frame with a sliding carriage, adjustable springs (for resistance), a foot bar, and straps. It moves with you, literally, to help you strengthen, stretch, and stabilise.

We’ll show you how to lie on it, change the springs, and adjust it to fit your body. No experience required. No need to memorise anything. That’s our job.

💪 You’ll Move... But Not Like a HIIT Class

Reformer Pilates is controlled, precise, and surprisingly challenging - but in the best way.

You’ll go through a series of guided movements: pressing, pulsing, pulling, and planking. All low-impact. All designed to work your core, glutes, arms, and posture muscles in ways you didn’t even know existed.

You’ll wobble a little. You’ll probably laugh. And yes, your abs might feel personally attacked by the next day.

🧠 You’ll Be Focused - But Not Lost

We keep our reformer classes small (8 max), so you’ll never feel like you’re flailing in a corner.Your instructor will guide you every step of the way, with cues to help you breathe, move, and engage the right muscles.

There’s no “right” level of strength or flexibility to start. There’s just your starting point. And we love that for you.

🧦 You’ll Wear Grippy Socks (and Possibly Want a Pair in Every Colour)

They’re required for safety, and honestly, they’re kind of cute. You can bring your own or grab a pair in-studio.

Wear something comfy that you can move easily in - leggings, fitted top, sports bra. No shoes. No need to match your outfit to your mat (unless that’s your thing).

🫶 You’ll Leave Feeling Taller, Calmer, and Weirdly Proud of Yourself

Reformer Pilates isn’t just about physical strength - it’s about reconnecting. With your body. Your breath. Your capacity.

After class, you might feel:

• A little shaky (in the best way)

• A little sore the next day (hello, deep muscles)

• A little smug (you did that)

  
  

And the best part? You’ll want to come back.

Ready to Try Reformer Pilates in Keyworth?

Our small group classes are warm, welcoming, and ego-free. Just you, your breath, a badass machine… and a room full of people discovering what their bodies can do.