Welcome back to another Trying New Things! In this monthly column, I try a health, wellness or fitness activity to help you decide if you want to give it a try. From last month with recreational softball to a few months ago when I tried CrossFit, each has been a different way to not only get in a workout, but to have fun, too. Not long ago, I tried mat Pilates. This month, I took it up a notch and tried reformer Pilates.
What is it?
As I mentioned in my previous mat Pilates article, Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century as a rehabilitation method. Over time, it has evolved into a popular form of exercise for dancers, athletes and, now, everyday people looking for a way to move. While mat Pilates is more accessible, especially with so many online videos to help people learn for free at home, reformer Pilates requires special equipment, the reformer and a certified instructor which makes it a bit pricier and harder to find. The reformer features a moving carriage, springs for adjustable resistance and straps to guide different movements.
Two Different Experiences
In order to provide an authentic review of reformer Pilates, I took two classes at two different studios to understand the scope of what is available. They could not have been more different.
The first studio had a calm, almost meditative energy. Soft music played in the background and the instructor guided us slowly through each movement. We took breaks, focused on form and were encouraged to notice how each exercise felt in our bodies. It had more of a rehabilitation feel with less sweat and more awareness. I left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated and not overly sore for the following days.
The second class, on the other hand, felt like a different world. The room was dark with lights around the mirrors, the music was loud and the instructor kept up a constant stream of directions through a microphone. The pace was fast, the moves complex and I was barely keeping up. Luckily, the instructor was helpful in assisting me with form and adjusting the machine springs, but it was much more of a workout. In particular, my shoulders were aching the next day in a way I’ve never felt.
Beginner Friendly?
Beginner friendly depends entirely on where you decide to go and what instructor you have, from my experience.
If you’re new to Pilates or just curious, I would not make the same mistake I did and sign up for an intermediate class to start. I’d recommend starting with a slower paced, fundamentals-style class and jumping up to a more challenging one when you’re familiar with the reformer machine. It takes time to get comfortable with the new movements and equipment. I think the faster paced class will be really fun when I get more accustomed.
For those interested in a more slow paced, rehabilitation style class, I think it is absolutely beginner friendly. I will mention again that it is not a super accessible activity – it’s expensive, requires equipment and may take time in finding the right place that suits your style. There are a lot of people that really love and gravitate towards Pilates, so it could be a new activity you find out you really love!
Did I Feel Like I Was Working Out?
I felt like I was working out, but not in the sweaty, heartracing way I so often associate a “good workout” with.
In the slower class, I didn’t break a sweat, but the small, controlled movements with unfamiliar equipment had me shaking at times. I also felt absolutely incredible after. The faster paced class, on the other hand, was undeniably tough. My heart rate was up, it was loud with music and instructions, and I was struggling to complete some of the exercises. It was harder to follow but, with practice, I think I would be able to learn the system.
Overall, reformer Pilates is a unique blend of rehabilitation, mindfulness and challenge. I like how many styles are available so more people can find what clicks with their needs. I can absolutely see myself giving it another few tries to really grow comfortable so I am learning the movements and equipment less, and focusing on the exercise more.
